Water level continues to rise in Le Myat Na, rescue operations for trapped people ongoing

YT (August 2) Mizzima. In Le Myat Na Township, Ayeyarwady Region, which is experiencing widespread flooding due to the collapse of the Ngwun River embankment, the water level continues to rise, and rescue operations and aid are being provided to those trapped in their homes, according to a rescue worker. The embankment of the Ngwun River near Myo Kyi village began to collapse on July 30, causing flooding in almost all surrounding areas, including the urban wards of Le Myat Na. Although rescue operations have been underway for four days since the incident began, some flood victims remain trapped in their homes due to rising water levels, a shortage of equipment such as boats and fuel, and lack of phone service, and rescue efforts are continuing, said an official from a local social welfare organization. "Some people are just staying put as much as they can. In such cases, it is difficult to work. Most people are going out when they ask for help. We are all going around by boat and helping," he said. "This is not a normal flood caused by rain and mountain runoff; it could be prolonged. No one can predict how long it will last. If possible, we want everyone to leave their homes and move to a safe place," he added. It is known that many charitable organizations from regions including Yangon, Mandalay, and Bago, as well as from nearby areas, are coming to assist with flood relief efforts in Le Myat Na Township. "The condition of the embankment collapse is worsening. Water is continuing to flow in. Rescue efforts are very strong, and people are coming from all over the region," said a resident of Le Myat Na Township. The military junta has announced that flooding has occurred in five urban wards and five village tracts, affecting 8,382 people from 1,734 households. Furthermore, it stated that 6,371 acres of monsoon paddy fields belonging to 2,593 farmers in six village tracts have been submerged, and 246 cows, 369 pigs, and 120 goats have been moved to safety. A person involved in rescue operations on the ground wrote on their social media that 14,056 people from 3,158 households have been evacuated to safety. Mizzima has not yet been able to independently verify these numbers.