By Kantarawaddy Times
The Zale Bridge on the Taungoo-Dee Maw Hso road, a vital trade route for goods entering Karenni State’s Demawso Township, has been severely damaged by landmines, exacerbating supply shortages and raising concerns about humanitarian aid delivery to displaced communities.
The repeated damage to the bridge, a critical link for transporting goods, has caused greater challenges than rising prices alone. The scarcity of essential items is now the primary issue, according to Ko Pyae Sone from the Pyi Kant Kaw IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) Assistance Team, who spoke to Kantarawaddy Times.
“It’s not just about rising prices. Lately, it has been difficult to even purchase what we need. Many essential items are inaccessible, stores are running out of supplies, and prices continue to rise. With no new goods, especially dry goods, coming in, the shortages are worsening. Earlier, we faced difficulties due to floods, and now the bridge closure is making the situation even more challenging,” explained Ko Pyae Sone.
He further noted that the disruption in supply chains has hampered efforts to procure and donate vital supplies to displaced people, while requests for aid continue to increase.
Ko Phoe Zaw from the Tun Myanmar Donations Group, which supports displaced populations, warned that the rising prices and shortages will further burden those dependent on this trade route for their daily needs.
“It is certain that displaced people, who rely on this route for essential supplies, will face increasing hardship due to rising prices,” stated Ko Phoe Zaw.
The Zale Bridge had previously been targeted by a landmine in August, suffering only minor damage that allowed vehicles and motorcycles to continue using it. However, on the night of October 4, at approximately 11 PM, four landmines were detonated, causing significant damage to the bridge and rendering it impassable. This has severely obstructed the transportation of aid to displaced people, Ko Phoe Zaw added.
The identity of those responsible for planting the landmines remains unknown, according to aid organizations working with displaced populations.
