Flood Fears in Sagaing

By Zarni Mann 21 September 2017

MANDALAY – Recent flooding in Kalay, Sagaing Region, which has affected more than 7,000 people, has locals fearing a repeat of the devastation of 2015.

About 12 villages located near Kalaymyo have been flooded since Tuesday afternoon, when surrounding rivers swelled due to heavy rain.

Although the water levels receded slightly on Thursday, locals worry after recent years have brought extreme flood damage.

“Today, the water went down slowly as the weather was clear and without rain, however, we are still worried and remain alert,” said Kalaymyo resident Daw Mar Mar Thi.

Schools and monasteries remain open in Insein, Nat Nan, Hto Mar, Pyin Thar, and Taung Oo, where some 7,000 locals are taking refuge.

“There are people who stayed behind to protect their homes,” said Daw Thant Wai Kyaw, a lawmaker in Sagaing Region.

Three bridges in the region were destroyed from the rising water and strong currents.

“A landslide on the bank of the Hse Gyi stream destroyed an adjacent road that leads to a bridge. The bridge will be out of use for some time,” explained Daw Thant Wai Kyaw.

Two other bridges on the Nat Chaung and Aung Myin Thar creeks were swept away, and locals now face transportation difficulties.

According to government officials, aid for the flood victims was distributed and arrangements for alternative transportation are being implemented.

The lawmaker added that the situation was improving but that locals remain cautious.

According to statistics from the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, the water level of the local Myittha River is one foot above the danger level and it is predicted that it could remain there for two days.