Intense armed clash and rigorous security checks impact supports for displaced villagers

July 17, 2025

HURFOM: Since March 14^th, 2025, there have been heavy armed clashes between the military junta and the joint forces of the Karen National Liberation Army alongside the Kaw Ka Rate – Kyone Doe Asia Highway Road, located in Kaw Ka Rate Township, Karen State.

The fighting forced more than 35,000 villagers to flee their homes.

The displaced villagers have taken temporary shelter in camps, near villages and monasteries.

The armed clashes are intensifying and as of today the military junta has limited movement and has blocked transportation alongside the Mawlamyine – Kyone Doe – Kaw Ka Rate Highway Road. This measure is limiting the activities of social workers who help displaced communities.

“We urgently need medicine for people suffering from diarrhea and other illnesses which are very common in the rainy season. We also need essential supplements for pregnant women, children and elderly persons. We can’t provide much support as movement is limited. Now, we have a problem with sending food to the displaced communities,” said a social worker.

Two weeks ago, social workers could visit the displaced villagers in person with the recommendation of particular village/ward Administrators; however, now, the displaced villagers have to come to collect the supportive items themselves.

Within four months, commodity prices have quadrupled due to movement limitation and rigorous security checks in Kaw Ka Rate Township. There is a scarcity of goods in the area.

“The transportation flow has stopped due to the blockade by both sides. People have to deal with the black market and the prices are crazily high,” said a Kaw Ka Rate resident.

Frequent and constant armed conflicts forced residents to flee from seven wards in Kaw Ka Rate Town, six wards in Kyone Doe Town and 17 villages alongside the Asia Highway Road. They are unable to return home as of today.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News