Due to ongoing fighting in Thandwe Township, Arakan State, over 10,000 displaced people are facing food and shelter shortages, and urgent assistance is needed, according to those helping the internally displaced persons (IDPs).
A local aid worker stated that due to a lack of job opportunities, rising commodity prices, and limited support, most displaced people are struggling to find enough food.
“Many IDPs are facing hunger. Jobs are scarce, and very few organizations are providing assistance, so they are facing significant difficulties,” they said.
The displaced people are from Ngapali town and surrounding coastal villages, and they have been hiding in safer areas since the fighting began. Although the entire Thandwe Township is under the control of the Arakha Army (AA), the displaced people report that they cannot return home due to the dangers posed by the military council’s airstrikes.
“Most locals along the Ngapali beach mainly rely on fishing. Their fishing activities have stopped. Since they are displaced, they are relying on donations and begging for food,” said a displaced person from Ngapali.
Due to road blockages imposed by the military junta, there is no flow of goods. This has led to shortages and rising food prices, which further exacerbates the difficulties faced by the IDPs.
While social workers are doing their best to assist with food needs, they report that due to high demand and various challenges such as transportation and financial issues, they are unable to provide sufficient support.
“Commodity prices here are about twice as high as in northern Arakan State. Goods have become scarce, and the arrival of food and other supplies has significantly decreased. This has made life difficult for everyone, including the IDPs,” said another local aid worker in Thandwe.
In Arakan State, the number of people displaced due to the conflict has exceeded 600,000, and the need for food and medical assistance remains high.
Sent by Aung Htein (DMG).