Drinking Water Scarcity in Displacement Camps in Kyauktaw

Drinking Water Scarcity in Displacement Camps in Kyauktaw

Arakha Times (17-November-2024)

Some displacement camps in Kyauktaw, Rakhine State, are facing a scarcity of drinking water, and residents fear the situation may worsen soon, according to displaced individuals who spoke to Arakha Times.

Currently, the lack of rainfall, coupled with hot weather and an increasing population in the camps, has caused the water levels in reservoirs used for drinking water to decrease significantly. A displaced person from the Taung Min Kalar camp explained:

“In the past, the reservoirs were full during the rainy season. Now, without rain, only 60% of water remain. 40% is already gone. Previously, this time of year had plenty of water, but now, with another three or four months—until Tabodwe (February)—the reservoirs could dry up completely.”

The Taung Min Kalar camp alone is hosting approximately 500 displaced individuals, and the rising population has led to a corresponding increase in water consumption.

The displaced population includes not only locals from Kyauktaw but also people fleeing from other towns and villages, which has further exacerbated the situation.

“Some people cut and sell firewood to buy rice, while others work as daily laborers during the harvest season. But daily labor isn’t always available—sometimes only once every three or four days. Many of the newly displaced from areas like Buthidaung and Maungdaw are in even worse conditions; they arrive with nothing and face even greater hardships,” one camp resident explained.

With the arrival of the winter season, there is also an urgent need for clothing and blankets. Additionally, children in the camps are reported to be suffering from illnesses such as colds, coughs, and fevers, further compounding the difficulties faced by displaced families.