By Kantarawaddy Times
In flood-affected villages along the border between Loikaw and Dee Maw Hso Townships in Karenni State, water levels have begun to recede, but residents are still struggling to resume their normal activities. As a result, they are facing difficulties not only with their livelihoods but also with access to clean drinking water.
“Those who have returned are mainly guarding their homes and fishing. Only those whose houses were located on higher ground were allowed to stay, while homes in the lower areas remain more affected. Back in 2011, the village didn’t experience flooding, but this past year, the water level was quite significant,” a man from Phaung Taw village in Demoso Township told the Kantarawaddy Times.
Some villagers returned home during the Thadingyut Festival to light oil lamps and begin cleaning their houses.
Currently, many returnees are living in makeshift tents within their compounds, while others are staying in the upper floors of elevated homes. The village is still partially submerged, creating an ongoing need for access to drinking water.
“The people who have returned are finding it difficult to get drinking water. The current water is not safe to drink. In the past, we received donations of drinking water from others, but those supplies are not regular,” a local from Phaung Taw village added.
Phaung Taw is known for the cultivation of rice, flowers, coffee, onions, and various beans, but the lingering water levels are hindering the resumption of farming activities.
“Before the military takeover and before the flood, this village relied heavily on agriculture. It was known for growing crops like flowers, coffee, beans, and onions,” another resident explained.
In September, villages along the Loikaw-Dee Maw Hso border, including Payar Phyu, Payar Ni, Phaung Taw, and Plah Phat, were completely submerged due to severe flooding. Some houses were damaged or washed away, and residents are now in need of assistance to rebuild their homes.
