Hundreds of IDPs in Mrauk-U Twsp face difficulties as shelters destroyed by cyclonic winds

By DMG 26 May 2021

DMG Newsroom
26 May 2021, Mrauk-U

Many temporary shelters at IDP camps in Mrauk-U Township, Arakan State, have been destroyed by Cyclone Yaas, which formed over the Bay of Bengal in recent days, according to IDP camp managers.

Out of 780 temporary shelters, 171 at Sin Baw Kaing IDP camp in Mrauk-U Township were destroyed by heavy winds, Mrata Zaung Sayadaw told DMG.

“These temporary shelters are old and need to be rebuilt; however, we cannot afford to do it. Now, a total of 171 shelters have been battered down by strong winds. We’re also worried over the other shelters as the storm hasn’t finished,” said the senior monk.

A total of 780 IDPs from 171 destroyed shelters are currently staying at nearby shelters, and financial aid is needed to rebuild them, he added.

These temporary shelters are not strong and were made of bamboo and similarly flimsy timber three years ago, IDP U Soe Thein told DMG.

“The pillars of our shelter have been damaged. Currently, we have to stay at other people’s shelters. It is still raining. As the shelter does not have enough space for a family, it is very difficult for us. I’m sure that more damage will occur as the storm hasn’t finished yet,” he said.

Thirteen shelters from Mrata Zaung IDP camp and six shelters from Kan Htaung Gyi IDP camp were also destroyed due to the storm, said the respective IDP camp managers.

IDPs are in need of financial assistance from international organisations, civil society organisations and relevant governmental departments to rebuild their damaged shelters.

Due to the severity of Cyclone Yaas, rain or thundershowers are forecast in Bago, Yangon and Ayeyarwady regions, and Arakan State, with isolated heavy rainfall over that same area over the next two days, the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology said on May 26.

Photo: A shelter at Mrata Zaung IDP camp is seen after being battered by strong winds.