Sittwe residents flee to Mrauk-U as gathering storm approaches

By Admin 12 May 2023

DMG Newsroom
12 May 2023, Mrauk-U

Many residents have fled the Arakan State capital Sittwe for Mrauk-U following reports that Cyclone Mocha will make landfall near Sittwe, and bus fares have almost tripled.

Bus fares on Friday increased from 15,000 kyats per head to 40,000 kyats as many people are flocking to the ancient royal capital, which lies higher above sea level.

Residents have complained about the increased bus fares at a time when people are struggling in the face of an impending disaster.

A resident who has fled to Mrauk-U said: “Many people are taking shelter in Mrauk-U because they think it will be safer there as the town is largely forested. Bus drivers are charging 20,000 to 40,000 kyats.”

Those who can’t afford it have difficulties going to safer places.

One driver said: “Some drivers charge higher fares while people are in trouble. But I only charge 10,000 kyats for the ride to Kyauktaw, and 15,000 kyats to Mrauk-U. I am not driving tomorrow.”

Meanwhile, Aung Thukha Sittwe-Mandalay express bus service is providing free transportation for those who have difficulties travelling to Ponnagyun, Kyauktaw and Mrauk-U towns to escape the storm.

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology said Cyclone Mocha, which has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm, may make landfall in Arakan State on Sunday. Thousands of local people have been evacuating their homes.

The Myanmar National Natural Disaster Management Committee on Friday evening issued a red alert for Sittwe, Pauktaw, Maungdaw, Rathedaung, Myebon, Kyaukphyu and Manaung townships.