Extreme heat exposes water shortages across multiple regions in Myanmar
133
Khit/ Thant Zin (NP News) - May 2
After the hot weather, certain areas in Mandalay and Magway regions are facing more severe water shortages compared to last year. Consequently, water donations are being organized by the fire department and local social organizations.
The Mandalay Region has been spearheading water donation initiatives since February. It has been reported that since the end of the Thingyan period, nearly 30,000 gallons of water are being donated daily.
"The Mandalay Region Fire Department has been delivering water donations since February primarily to Kyaukpadaung, Nyaung-U, and Pyawbwe townships. We're aware that other areas are experiencing water shortages as well, and plans are underway to expand our water distribution efforts. Donations have significantly increased since the Thingyan Festival with daily contributions exceeding 20,000 to 30,000 gallons. Unfortunately, water scarcity is also affecting some parts of Mandalay itself," an official form Myanmar Fire Service Department (Mandalay Region) told NP News.
The representative further added that since the onset of the extreme heat, if any additional areas within the Mandalay Region experiencing water shortages request assistance, they are prepared to provide water donations according to the needs.
A local social organization in Yaynanchaung Township, Magway Region, is providing daily water donations to areas facing water shortages. They are also undertaking well-digging and pond-construction activities.
“Electricity outages is also a reason for water shortages in Yaynanchaung, various charitable organizations and social associations have stepped in to donate water. Additionally, donors have funded the construction of wells and water tanks in several villages. To date, from our organization, seven wells have been excavated, and a total of 26 water tanks have been contributed. The water scarcity issue extends to certain areas in Chauk as well, prompting donors to provide water tank donations, as highlighted by a spokesperson from the Yaynan Dingar Brothers Charity.
In addition, he added that some of the villages in Yaynanchaung Township are suffering from water shortages due to the extreme heat, drying up of wells and ponds, occurring water shortages. The water shortage problem can be exacerbated by escalating temperature.
The Myanmar Fire Service Department has reported that water donations have been carried out in several regions and states, including Mandalay, Magway, Ayeyawady, Bago, and Mon, as well as in the Yangon Region.