Residents in Ye Township’s eastern region are stockpiling food and essential supplies as clashes continue between the military junta and resistance forces, and military-imposed roadblocks restrict the transport of goods.
Following recent battles near Kyonlaung Village, the military junta has blocked the Ye-Kyonlaung road, limiting movement and restricting the transportation of goods. This has prompted villagers in areas unaffected by the fighting—such as Khawzar, Kyonnyae, Mihtawhla Lay, Mihtawhla Gyi, and Magyi—to rush to Ye town to purchase rice, medicine, and other necessities.
“People fear more fighting will break out, and they worry the military will shut down the roads again. So, they are stockpiling rice and food supplies before it’s too late,” said a resident from southern Ye.
Due to increased stockpiling, junta checkpoints along the Ye-Khawzar road are imposing stricter controls on goods transport.
“If we buy large amounts of rice, they question us. To transport goods from town, we must call them first and get approval. Even then, they only allow two sacks of rice per vehicle,” a local woman reported.
The restrictions have led to rising food prices, making it increasingly difficult for low-income families to afford basic necessities. The junta has maintained roadblocks on the Ye-Kyaung Ywar and Ye-Kyonlaung routes for over 20 days, exacerbating food shortages in the region.
