Multiple supports needed for people with disabilities

By Admin 12 Dec 2024

DMG Newsroom
12 December 2024, Sittwe

Those who have lost limbs due to airstrikes, shelling, landmines and unexploded ordnance during the military conflict in Arakan State need psychological as well as physical support.

People who have lost limbs face difficulties in daily social activities due to the lack of assistive devices such as crutches and prosthetic limbs.

“I lost one of my legs in a landmine blast and the other leg is in a cast, so I can’t move around as much as I want. If possible, I would like to have crutches so that I can walk on my own, but I can’t afford them yet,” said Ma Khaing Khaing Mar, a disabled woman in Hnamadah Village, part of Chin State’s Paletwa Township.

Those who have been disabled due to the loss of limbs, or suffer from vision and hearing impairments as a result of the war, are enduring mental and physical pain while overcoming difficulties.

Among those who become disabled, most are men who are the main breadwinners for their families, and are facing hardships due to lack of jobs and skyrocketing prices.

“Previously, I made a living as a mechanic, but lost one of my legs in a landmine explosion. I can’t work now. I believe that if I had something to support me, like prosthesis, I could return to work,” said Ko Tun Aye Thein, a disabled man from Peinhnechaung Village in Kyauktaw Township.

During the previous fighting, international organisations and local civil society organisations provided physical and psychological support to those who lost limbs, but currently, there is little or no support for them.

Local social organisations are also facing challenges in providing assistance to those affected due to financial difficulties, as well as a lack of transportation, and an internet and mobile phone shutdown.

“Due to our budget constraints and communications gaps, we are unable to help people with disabilities in some areas, but we are able to connect and help as much as we can. Currently, there is a great need for psychological and physical support for people with disabilities, as well as creating employment opportunities,” said Ko Pyae Phyo Naing, chairman of the Ponnagyun Youths Association (PYA).

According to the Rakhine State Disabilities Organization, more than 720 civilians were disabled by junta air and artillery strikes, landmines and unexploded ordnance in Myebon, Minbya, Mrauk-U, Kyauktaw, Ponnagyun, Pauktaw and Maungdaw townships over the past 11 months.