Displaced residents of Chaunghnitkhwa Village in Kyaikmarraw Township, Mon State, remain unable to return home more than a year after fleeing conflict, according to local sources.
In November 2023, thousands of residents were forced to flee after resistance forces launched an attack on the village’s police station and the security checkpoint at the Ataran Bridge. Although no further clashes have occurred in the area since, the continued presence of military junta forces in the village has deterred most residents from returning.
“Some people have started returning to places where it’s safer, but many areas remain restricted. Reconstruction efforts have begun, but people are hesitant to invest much, as the situation remains uncertain. Even those working on rebuilding receive no support and must rely on whatever resources they have,” said a resident of Chaunghnitkhwa Village.
In September, Mon State Chief Minister U Aung Kyi Thein of the military junta announced plans to assist with rebuilding homes and villages damaged during clashes in Kyaikmarraw Township. However, residents report that little to no support has been provided, forcing them to rely on their own efforts for reconstruction.
“We haven’t received any aid. The only ones able to return are fishermen or farmers. The others can’t make a living yet. Even if donors are willing to help, the ongoing military presence makes it impossible to rebuild effectively. Right now, we’re just trying to prevent the village from becoming completely abandoned,” said another resident.
The fighting in Chaunghnitkhwa and neighboring villages such as Taungkalay, Meitayo, and Hlakazaing caused extensive destruction, including civilian casualties, homes destroyed by mortar fire, and fires reportedly set by junta forces. Over 20,000 residents from nearly 20 villages were displaced, and many remain unable to return due to safety concerns and the lack of rebuilding resources.
