Heavy Monsoon Rains Trigger Flooding, Displace Thousands in Myanmar
Image source: ABC News
Myanmar is once again grappling with the devastating impact of heavy monsoon rains, which have caused extensive flooding in the country’s southern regions. The deluge has displaced over 10,000 people and disrupted vital transportation links, including rail services connecting Myanmar’s major cities. While there have been no reported casualties thus far, the flooding poses significant challenges to affected communities.
Continuous rainfall in the Bago region, commencing last week, has led to widespread flooding in low-lying areas, particularly in the capital, Bago township. According to Myanmar’s Meteorological Department, Bago township experienced an astonishing 7.87 inches (200 millimeters) of rainfall, the highest level in nearly six decades. The downpour prompted authorities to issue warnings of rain or thundershowers expected across the country until Monday evening.
The extent of the flooding is alarming, with some areas experiencing water depths of 7-8 feet (2.44 meters) in low-lying regions and 3-4 feet in downtown Bago. Local residents are struggling to cope with the unprecedented situation, and many have been forced to evacuate their homes.
Thuzar Zin Maung, chairman of the Mizzima Thukha Charity Foundation, described the dire situation, stating that “almost the whole area of the town was flooded.” This is the third major flood event in the town this year, making it the worst in recent memory. In response, monasteries have opened relief camps, and charitable organizations are working tirelessly to evacuate those in low-lying areas.
The Myanmar government and relief organizations have mobilized to provide assistance to the affected population. As of now, people are taking shelter in 32 relief camps, schools, and Buddhist monasteries in Bago. Authorities are delivering essential supplies, including food, drinking water, and other necessities to support those displaced by the floods.
The flooding has also significantly disrupted transportation networks, particularly the rail lines connecting major cities. Trains departing from Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, as well as those from southern Mawlamyine township, have been halted in their tracks due to inundation. In Yangon, the nation’s largest city, scheduled rail departures have been canceled as rail lines have been submerged by the rapid flow of water from mountain torrents and dam overflow in the Bago region.
Reports from the state-run Myanmar Alinn newspaper highlight that flooding extends beyond Bago, affecting areas like Kyaikto township in southern Mon state. Mountain torrents have inundated some neighborhoods, forcing 555 people to seek refuge in three relief camps. Myanmar faces annual challenges during the monsoon season, with extreme weather events, including heavy rains and flooding, occurring regularly. The devastating impact of natural disasters in the past, such as Cyclone Nargis in 2008, serves as a stark reminder of the country’s vulnerability during this period.
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- Harshit Tokas is a Political Science and International Affairs Post-Graduate with a passion for understanding and analyzing complex political landscapes. Skilled in research, data analysis, and policy development. Eager to contribute his knowledge and insights to drive positive change.
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