Cargo trucks and passenger buses on the Myeik–Dawei road remain stranded for more than a month due to ongoing clashes near the Winwa police station in Thayetchaung Township, according to local residents and revolutionary forces.
Fighting has continued since early February as joint revolutionary forces launched attacks to seize the Winwa police station, while the military junta responded with reinforcements, mortar shelling, and airstrikes. Vehicles have been stranded at two locations, near Palauk at Pitaing village, and near Thayetchaung.
A local resident said vehicles remain unable to move as landmines and unexploded ordnance along the road have not yet been cleared.
“Vehicles are still lined up on both sides. No one can pass. The road has been inaccessible since February 8, and it has now been more than 30 days. The road is not officially closed, but landmines along the route are preventing travel,” the resident said.
Although joint revolutionary forces captured the Winwa police station on March 11, clashes and artillery shelling continue as they pursue retreating military junta troops.
A spokesperson from the Tanintharyi People’s Defense Force said road access and communication lines will be restored after area clearance operations are completed.
“Current fighting is focused on clearing remaining junta troops. Once the area is secured, we will reopen roads and restore internet services as soon as possible. For now, restrictions remain due to the security situation,” the spokesperson said.
Due to security concerns, both land and water transport routes between Myeik and Dawei have been suspended. However, a source said water transport is expected to resume on March 17.
The road closure is among the longest in Tanintharyi Region in recent months, and residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel.
