Urgent repairs needed for Kyaukpandu–Cedipyin mountain road amid safety concerns

By Admin 17 Mar 2026

DMG Newsroom

17 March 2026, Maungdaw

Local residents are calling for urgent repairs to the Kyaukpandu–Cedipyin road, which runs through the Mayu Mountains and connects southern Maungdaw Township to the Mayu riverbank area in Rathedaung Township, citing serious safety risks for travelers.

The mountain road was heavily damaged during last year’s monsoon season, with large boulders blocking sections of the route and erosion causing parts of the road to collapse. These conditions have led to frequent vehicle accidents.

In addition to physical hazards, residents expressed concern over the presence of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), which they say poses security risks along the route.

“Motorcycles crash frequently. On our last trip, we even saw a car that had veered off the road. When traveling by motorcycle, we have to dismount and walk on steep sections. But walking is also frightening because of concerns about encountering ARSA members. If the road were improved, it would significantly enhance safety,” said a local woman from Cedipyin Village in Rathedaung Township.

The 10-mile, 7-furlong road is a key route for residents of Rathedaung Township, serving as an important link for trade, access to healthcare, and daily livelihoods.

“The road condition is extremely poor. Only those familiar with the terrain dare to use it. If it is not repaired now, it could become completely impassable by the next monsoon season,” said a 32-year-old resident of Rathedaung.

Residents are also calling for improved security measures to prevent potential ambushes, in addition to infrastructure upgrades.

While the United League of Arakan (ULA), which controls large parts of Arakan State, has undertaken road and bridge construction projects in several townships, locals noted that no work has yet been carried out on this mountain road.

Some residents suggested that the ULA should lead the repair work, even if it requires financial contributions from the public.

“The road needs proper reconstruction using heavy machinery. If it leads to a safe and reliable road, people would be willing to contribute financially,” said a resident from Kyaukpandu Village.

The route connects western Rathedaung, southern Buthidaung, southern Maungdaw and extends toward Sittwe.

Residents said that while the steepest sections have been reinforced with concrete, most of the road consists of rough stone paths that have severely deteriorated, making travel difficult for both cars and motorcycles. The concrete sections currently extend only from Kyaukpandu and Cedipyin villages to the base of the Mayu Mountains.