Vox Pop: Cyclone victims in Sittwe share views on junta aid provisioning

By Admin 08 Jun 2023

DMG Newsroom
8 June 2023, Sittwe

Cyclone Mocha, which made landfall over Arakan State with deadly force on May 14, destroyed thousands of homes and buildings in Arakan State, leaving many people homeless. In the aftermath of the storm, there is an urgent need for food, shelter, medicine and drinking water, and there are many difficulties in rebuilding.

International and local organisations are working to provide assistance to those affected by the storm, but it remains less than what is needed. Junta-controlled dailies such as Myanmar Alinn and The Mirror and broadcaster MRTV claim that the regime has been continuously delivering and distributing relief supplies to storm victims in Arakan State.

DMG interviewed some Sittwe residents about whether the regime’s assistance to people affected by Cyclone Mocha has been effective and what the situation actually looks like on the ground.

Daw Thaung Nu || Anauk Sanpya Ward, Sittwe

I received one basket of rice as relief supplies. In addition, I was provided with some instant noodles, dried chili and a packet of candles. I face livelihood hardships because I have 12 children. As you see, I am struggling to make ends meet.

Daw May Nu || Sat Yoe Kya Ward, Sittwe

I received rice supplies three times. There are some storm victims who have yet to receive relief items. I didn’t receive cooking oil. We cannot cook with rice alone. My household registration certificate and identity card were lost when the cyclonic storm hit Arakan State. I was working in Ponnagyun Township when the storm swept through Arakan State. I face difficulties in enrolling my children because I don’t have my ID card.

Daw Ma Bu Bu || Kontan Ward, Sittwe

I received one basket of rice and some cooking oil. I have not been able to repair my damaged home since the cyclonic storm made landfall in Arakan State. Everything is not convenient for us. I don’t know what the government is doing regarding distribution of relief items. I read some news on Facebook that relief supplies were provided to storm victims in Sittwe. Actually, I didn’t receive any assistance except for one basket of rice.

Daw Zin Mar Nu || Ohntapin Ward, Sittwe

I received one basket of rice, some cooking oil and three eggs as relief items. I would like to urge the military junta to provide us with relief items. All storm victims are in trouble. There are many grassroots in Sittwe. Some women whose husbands are away face more difficulties in repairing their homes. I am currently taking refuge at a monastery as my home was destroyed by the cyclone.

Daw Ohnmar || Mingan Ward, Sittwe

I have not received any assistance since the cyclonic storm made landfall in Arakan State. Many people in our neighbourhood are facing various hardships and are in urgent need of shelter and food items. If it is raining, they cover their children with an umbrella.

It would be good if the storm victims are provided with shelters and food. Many people affected by the cyclonic storm face difficulties finding jobs and are struggling to make ends meet. It upsets me when I hear people complain about being uncomfortable. Now we have neither a home to live in nor money to buy food.