Ever since the military coup, junta checkpoints along the Yangon-Mawlamyine highway have increased, along with more requests for money.
According to the drivers, at least 10 military junta checkpoints have been established along the Yangon-Mawlamyine road, where they are collecting official fees. In addition, some individuals in civilian clothes are also soliciting money.
According to one driver, depending on the type of car, the loaded goods and the number of passengers along the road, drivers must pay between ten to thirty thousand kyat per car.
He stated, “As a passenger vehicle, we incur an additional expense of about thirty thousand kyats. If the passenger lacks a national identity card, the cost increases further. I have to pay 3000/4000 kyats at each military junta checkpoint. Payment is required at every gate. It becomes more convenient to comply rather than spend time negotiating with them (junta army, police). Sometimes, groups in civilian clothes appear unexpectedly, and there is no exemption for any vehicle. I have to cover all expenses.”
Due to the high price of fuel, lack of passengers and political instability, drivers face difficulties to pay these increased fees.
Another driver mentioned, “The drivers are in a difficult situation because the money they earn is taken by the junta army and police. When they face such collections, it becomes frustrating for the drivers.”
Along the Yangon-Mawlamyine road, there are more requests for money and the road checks have become stricter, according to passengers.
The Yangon-Mawlamyine highway connects Tanintharyi Region, Mon State, and Karen State and is used by thousands of vehicles every day.
