Following the disruption of trade routes between Mandalay Region and northern Shan State due to Operation 1027, travelers are using a new route to northern Shan through Sagaing Region, according to drivers and travelers.
Goods being transported from Mandalay to northern Shan State are now being routed through territories controlled by resistance forces in Sagaing Region.
“Now we’re going to northern Shan through Sagaing, from Mandalay. It’s faster than the other route (through Taunggyi). The travel distance has become shorter,” said a resident from northern Shan State.
Previously, direct travel to northern Shan was possible via the Mandalay-Muse strategic highway. After conflicts erupted, the Mandalay-Taunggyi- Kyethi route has been used for over a year.
Currently, northern Shan can be accessed through Mogok town, which is under Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) control. Drivers and travelers say this route significantly reduces travel time compared to previous options.
“This route is very fast. People from Muse are now only using the Mogok route. ADvan and SURF cars all take this route. The only delay is crossing the river and waiting for the barge. Once you cross, it’s a wide-open road. You have to make donations to some PDF members along the way – about 5 or 10 groups before crossing the river. On the other side, there are some checkpoints where they do checks,” said a driver.
According to sources, resistance forces in Sagaing Region are also benefiting from road taxes as this new trade route has opened up for transporting essential goods to northern Shan State.
Sent by Shanni Voice.