More than 200 houses were destroyed during the fighting between the Arakha Army (AA) and military junta troops in Taungup town, Arakan State, with approximately 1,000 people facing challenges with rebuilding, food, and water, according to reports.
Due to the fighting, along with arson by the junta troops and artillery and air strikes, more than 200 homes near Yan Khaw village, Gyoe Gyar Kwin Ward, and areas where the junta temporarily stationed troops were destroyed, according to Taungup residents.
A man from Thandwe said: “The junta troops burned down many houses in areas where their battalions were stationed by artillery and air strikes. People still haven’t been able to rebuild their homes. In Yan Khaw village alone, more than 60 houses were destroyed.”
Currently, the AA is allowing Taungup residents to return to their homes and has provided some food supplies, according to reports.
Those whose homes were destroyed continue to be displaced by fighting and face numerous difficulties, requiring assistance for reconstruction, they said.
“People whose homes are still intact have returned and are living peacefully now. Those who haven’t been able to rebuild their homes yet are still living in the places where they fled during the fighting, doing whatever work they can find to survive,” said another Taungup resident.
The ethnic army began its reconstruction efforts step by step after taking complete control of Taugup Township on 14 Dec. 2024.
Currently, the AA continues its demining operations in the township. Since it was an area of intense fighting, local residents are facing dangers from landmines and unexploded ordnance, locals say.
On 11 March, a Taungup resident lost a leg after stepping on a mine while searching for vegetables near the military junta’s Military Operations Command 5.
“We can see that the AA is doing what it can for mine clearance. However, the military council planted many mines, so it’s still not safe for town residents. Mine clearance efforts need to be accelerated,” said a source close to the United League of Arakan (ULA).
Although the Arakan Army (AA) is carrying out reconstruction work in areas under its control in Arakan State, challenges remain due to the extensive damage caused during the conflict period.
Sent by Aung Htein (DMG).