Record-breaking flood impacts over 90,000 in Taungoo
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NP News - Sep 24
Within a few decades, Taungoo District in Bago Region experienced a record-breaking flood that affected over 90,000 people, as reported by U Tin Oo, the Bago Region Minister for Commerce.
Since September 12, heavy rainfall has caused rivers and creeks to rise, leading to flooding in the townships of Taungoo, Ottwin, Yaydashay, Htantapin, and Phyuu townships.
The record-breaking flood forced households from the mentioned townships in Taungoo District to evacuate to safe zones, resulting in widespread destruction.
According to a Bago Region Government official, “Flood affected 26,159 homes. Authorities have established 135 relief camps to accommodate the displaced, providing shelter to 15,882 households (approximately 67,454 individuals). Furthermore, 6,745 households (28,414 people) have found refuge with relatives. In total, the disaster has displaced 23,627 households and affected a population of 95,878.”
Although there were no reported casualties due to the flooding in Taungoo District, the official mentioned that some roads and bridges were damaged or collapsed.
The flood resulted in the closure of 38 government offices and 241 schools, comprising 31 high schools, 192 middle schools, and 18 primary schools. Nevertheless, as the water levels decrease, the Chief Minister has directed that schools be cleaned and reopened in their respective areas. Many schools have already resumed operations. To date, the regional government has provided over 100 million Kyats in assistance to flood-affected people.
Furthermore, it was also learned that a record-breaking flood in Taungoo District submerged 96,352 acres of farmland.