Residents urge tighter supervision of fuel storage in Arakan residential areas amid fire risks

By Admin 28 Mar 2026

DMG Newsroom

28 March 2026, Minbya

Residents in townships under the control of the Arakan Army in Arakan State have raised concerns over potential fire hazards as people rush to buy and store large quantities of fuel in their homes.

In Arakan State, where fuel prices remain unstable, business owners are competing to stockpile fuel in densely populated residential areas, prompting fears among local inhabitants of accidental fires.

“People are buying gasoline and kerosene to hoard for future price hikes instead of selling them now. I am specifically referring to storage inside residential homes. The fire risk is extremely high. If an accident occurs, everyone will suffer the consequences. The United League of Arakan needs to systematically supervise this issue and ensure that fuel is stored in appropriate locations outside living areas,” said a 26-year-old man in Minbya Township.

Residents noted that the risks are heightened during the summer season due to rising temperatures, as well as the ongoing threat of airstrikes from the regime.

They are calling for designated storage areas to safeguard lives and property from unregulated fuel hoarding in villages and towns.

“My neighbours in two nearby houses are storing massive amounts of fuel. This is particularly alarming given the threat of airstrikes. However, my concern is for the public good rather than a personal matter, and I want to see a systematic trading and storage system established outside residential areas, similar to what is done in Mrauk-U,” said a man from a village in Kyauktaw Township.

While fuel shortages have not yet hit Arakan State, residents said the conflict in the Middle East has contributed to wider energy instability.

People reported that fuel is being transported from mainland Myanmar and India through various means, but instead of using separate storage facilities, it is being kept in private homes.

“We are constantly worried about airstrikes, and if a fire breaks out, proper prevention could ensure that only one or two houses are affected instead of ten. I am suggesting ways to stay safe. Authorities should summon all fuel shop owners and distributors to enforce strict safety regulations and prevent fire disasters,” said another resident in Kyauktaw Township.

The Fire Department under the United League of Arakan has been working on fire prevention measures in areas under Arakan Army control.

Residents say fuel storage in residential neighbourhoods should also be brought under systematic and strict supervision.