Hundreds of vehicles have been stranded as local defense forces have closed the Myitkyina-Mandalay road indefinitely after the military junta troops launched operations in areas around Khin-U and Kanbalu towns along the road, sparking heightened military tensions between the two sides, according to sources.
With the Myitkyina-Mandalay road closure approaching one week, nearly 700 vehicles are now stranded. Truck drivers report that perishable goods and food items have started to spoil.
“From passenger vehicles, small and large buses, to cargo trucks and fuel tankers, we’re hearing there are nearly 700 vehicles stuck. Trucks carrying fresh vegetables and fish are already giving off a stench. Betel leaves and areca nuts have rotted,” one driver explained.
Since 19 February, the road has been closed in the areas around Khin-U and Kanbalu, though drivers note that no actual fighting has been observed along this section of the route.
Another driver mentioned that the closure is forcing them to use field roads, causing vehicle damage.
“They’re directing us through field roads and such, but those routes are so poor that vehicles break down and end up stranded again. If possible, it’s better not to travel by road these days,” he said.
Drivers also advise against unnecessary travel on the Myitkyina-Mandalay route as both the military council and joint forces of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and People’s Defense Force (PDF) are competing for recruits in the area.
Since 16 August 2024, when the KIA and allied forces launched offensives to capture Indaw town, the Myitkyina-Mandalay route has frequently been closed depending on the military situation.
Drivers further report that during periods of conflict, the number of tax checkpoints operated by both the military council and defense forces has increased along the Myitkyina-Mandalay route.
Sent by KNG.