As military tensions escalate between the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the Min Zay Thant People’s Militia Force along the Myitkyina–Tanai–Ledo road in Kachin State, civilians are encountering significant transportation challenges.
Residents of Tanai report that tensions are still running high between the two sides after the Min Zay Thant People’s Militia force launched an attack on a KIA military checkpoint in Warazut village along the Tanai–Myitkyina–Ledo road on 14 March.
Since the attack, frequent clashes between the groups have continued.
A local resident from Tanai, who arrived in Myitkyina, said, “We have to evaluate the situation on the road. If conditions ahead are bad, we turn back. Normally, this road is a one-day trip, but now, I have to spend the night in Nanmati. What used to be a day’s journey has turned into an overnight trip.”
Due to the ongoing military situation, travelers on the Myitkyina-Tanai road, which is typically a one-day journey, are facing extended travel times. Since 15 March, most passengers have been forced to spend the night along the route.
A bus station manager along the Myitkyina-Tanai route explained, “Buses, both passenger and cargo run daily. However, travelers can no longer expect to reach their destination in a single day. People have to spend the night on the road, and it’s difficult for us to explain this situation.”
Due to the ongoing military situation, travelers coming from the Tanai side have been forced to spend the night in villages like Nanmati and Lawa.
Meanwhile, those traveling from Myitkyina toward Tanai have had to stay overnight in villages such as Nampyat and Bangkok.
Recently, the Min Zay Thant People’s Militia Force has become active along the Ledo road, operating in and around villages like Nawngmi, Warazut, and Lawa.
With frequent clashes and heavy shelling between the two sides, travelers continue to face significant challenges.
In addition, travelers have reported that the Min Zay Thant People’s Militia Force, actively operating along the Ledo road, has been stopping and questioning the travellers.
The military junta has been providing air support to the areas around Warazut and Lawa villages, where clashes are ongoing.
On 14 March, airstrikes and bombings caused at least 16 homes in Warazut village to catch fire, and villagers reported that one civilian was killed in the attacks.
Sent by KNG
