Flood situation worsens across Arakan, Thousands evacuated

The flood situation has worsened in Rakhine State, especially in thetownships of Mrauk U, Minbya and Kyauk Taw, where thousands ofresidents have been evacuated.

According to the Rakhine State military council, altogether  1140 people (including 730 women) were shifted from the lower areas of Kaladan river on Tuesday.

Rakhine State military council  spokesperson U Hla Thein informed that following the increase of water level in Kaladan,  55 households from Muchaung and 150 households from Kyauk Talon under Kyauk Taw township were evacuated.

Similarly, over 1000 people from Minbya  township were evacuated soon after 20 villages got inundate, stated the spokesperson on his social media space.

As heavy downpour continues all major rivers in  Rakhine State continue to flow above danger levels.
Kalanda as well Laymyo river is also flowing  dangerously, stated Myanmar meteorology and hydrology department.

Ko Min Thein Zan from Guppi Htounk village on the bank of  Kaladan river informed that the water level was slowly increasing.

“The houses near the river are already submerged,” he added.

Meanwhile, the wards of Minbya township have been flooded, said a local resident. Talking to Narinjara News, he added that the water started increasing since the morning hours.

The normal life of residents in those areas was disrupted due to rainfalls and the flood water.

The national meteorology department warned that the water level in Laymyo  river may reach to critical  levels in various places.

"According to the time gauge at 7:30 am on Tuesday, the water level of Laymyo  river in Mrauk U township was about 3.5 feet,” said a departmental statement on 8 August.

Due to bad weather, the domestic boat services in Sittwe-Kyaukphyu-Rambre-Taungup rout  has been suspended.

Sittwe-Rangoon Highway in Mrauk U Township is also flooded along the highway road, residents said, making it difficult for cars to travel.