China reopened the Myitkyina-Kanpiketi road in Kachin State on 6 November, after it had been closed since August due to the ongoing military situation. However, drivers report that restrictions are still in place.
However, the military council has restricted the passage of passengers and fuel trucks, according to a driver working on Myitkyina-Kanpiketi road.
A driver in his 30s said, “Despite the reopening of the road in Kanpiketi, passengers are not allowed to use it. Only the driver and the conductor are permitted in the vehicle. Vehicles carrying passengers are forced to turn back at Balaminhtin and Waingmaw.”
The military council is conducting checks at the Balaminhtin bridge, which connects Myitkyina and Waingmaw. Passenger buses heading to Kanpiketi are being restricted.
A driver said that the military council stationed in Kanpiketi town has restricted the departure of passengers, fuel trucks, and cargo trucks. However, some personal goods are allowed to be transported by small vehicles.
He added, “Currently, only small vehicles are allowed to travel. Vehicles like the Alphard get the green light. These small vehicles are permitted to carry personal goods such as detergent powder, toothpaste, soaps, and soft drinks. However, large vehicles are not allowed to transport personal items.”
According to locals in Myitkyina, the price of personal goods imported from China has dropped slightly following the reopening of the Myitkyina-Kanpiketi road section.
Due to the ban on fuel transport, the price of gasoline in Myitkyina has risen to between 9,000 and 10,000 kyats per liter.
Many junta soldiers, along with the Border Guard Force (BGF) led by U Zahkung Ting Ying, are stationed at the Kanpiketi gate, which remains under the control of the junta forces.
After the capture of Pang War in Kachin Special Region-1, on the Myanmar-China border, by the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and allied forces, China swiftly closed all border gates. However, China has now reopened only the Kanpiketi gate.
Sent by KNG