Myanmar military reinforces positions in flood-hit Tanintharyi Region

Aid workers in Launglon Township, Tanintharyi Region, transport bodies recovered from floods on Sept. 29. (Credit: Zabuthiri Emergency Rescue Team)

Sources close to the People’s Defence Force (PDF) in the Tanintharyi Region capital Dawei Township told DVB that the Myanmar military has reinforced its positions in Dawei, Launglon and Thayetchaung townships after flood waters receded fully on Friday.

A PDF member under National Unity Government (NUG) command in Dawei told DVB on the condition of anonymity that at least 300 regime troops have been deployed in Launglon and Thayetchaung ahead of an expected regime counteroffensive planned to begin at the end of the rainy season this month.

Regime media reported that authorities have been clearing roads and reopened 55 of 56 schools in Dawei District on Oct. 1—after they had been closed since Sept. 24 due to flooding and landslides. No casualties were reported in Dawei.

A Launglon resident told DVB on the condition of anonymity that heavy machinery is needed to clear roads covered by 4-5 feet of debris caused by the landslides.