The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) has announced temporary road closures in the Mogok region of Mandalay Division due to continuous heavy rainfall, landslides, and flooding. According to the official announcement, six major road routes will be closed for seven days, from July 29 to August 5. The affected routes include Mogok-Kyaukme Road, Mogok-Momeik Road, Mogok-Singu Road, Mogok-Thabeikkyin Road, Pyin Oo Lwin-Ummati-Ummakha-Meinlon Road, and Tagaung-Twinngye-Momeik Road. These measures have been implemented to ensure public safety and facilitate urgent road repairs in the region.
The current situation shows severe damage to roads and bridges across these routes, with some areas experiencing complete blockages due to landslides and flooding. The closure is specifically aimed at enabling swift repair work to restore transportation infrastructure. Particularly concerning areas include the Kyauk Talon ascent, near Lway Mon village and Lower Nyaungkone, where roads have collapsed into ravines. The Meinlon pass curve, Pan Kwam route, and the ascent from Pyin Oo Lwin to Lay Gyi have developed major craters, making vehicle passage extremely dangerous. The deteriorating road conditions have made it impossible for even agricultural machinery to traverse certain sections.
Regarding traffic regulations, private vehicles will be permitted to resume travel from August 6. However, cargo trucks and large vehicles will remain prohibited until further notice. The situation between Momeik and Mogok is particularly challenging, with landslides causing road narrowing that forces vehicles to alternate passage one at a time. Local residents have reported significant difficulties in navigation, with some sections becoming increasingly treacherous due to continuous rainfall and subsequent erosion. Emergency road repair operations are currently underway by relevant authorities to address these infrastructure challenges caused by natural disasters. The temporary closure is deemed necessary to expedite these repair efforts and ensure the safety of all road users in the affected areas.
