Due to elevated water levels in the Bago River, residents from over 20 villages surrounding Bago City have been relocated to temporary shelters, according to local flood relief teams.
Continuous heavy rainfall has caused severe flooding since July 26, resulting in the establishment of more than 10 temporary shelters within Bago township. Each shelter is accommodating over 500 flood-affected individuals.
As of July 29, the Bago River continues to rise, prompting further evacuations from lower-lying areas, including Thanatpin township.
A flood relief worker from the Monzu Ward in Bago township reported, “Flooding has persisted for three days, affecting over 20 villages around the city. Last night, we had to relocate from the western Shwe Tan Bridge shelter as it became inundated. While there are many relief workers, the number of donors is insufficient. The 10 shelters currently in operation are housing over 500 people each. Many are staying at the nearby Baw Pone Kyaung monastery.”
The flood relief worker also noted challenges in the shelters, including rising prices for basic necessities and a shortage of donations, leading to difficulties in providing adequate food and supplies.
Despite ongoing efforts by firefighters, relief teams, and local residents, some areas remain inaccessible. In 2023, Bago township experienced its worst flooding in 60 years and is now facing similar severe conditions this year.
According to a statement from the Meteorology and Hydrology Department, Pago Division, Yangon and Ayeyarwady Region are expected to continue raining for the next 4 days.
