Riverbank erosion in Ayeyawady River forces evacuation of houses and devastates farmlands in Hinthada

Riverbank erosion along the Ayeyawady River has destroyed not only agricultural lands but also houses in the lower part of Yaylaethaung village, Hinthada Township, Ayeyawady Region, according to local residents.

Seventeen houses have already been relocated to safer areas due to the ongoing erosion, villagers reported.

“The bank collapsed because of erosion from the Ayeyawady River. In Yaylaethaung village, there are four village-tracts: Sittkone, upper, lower, and middle parts. The current damage occurred in the lower part of the village. Seventeen houses have been demolished and relocated. The erosion has been ongoing for about two weeks, destroying chili and betel fields, along with the original sites of several homes,” a local resident explained.

Temporary tents have been erected on agricultural land for displaced families. However, the erosion remains active, threatening additional homes within 100 feet of the riverbank.

 A village elder expressed grave concerns:“The landslides have not stopped, and more houses are at risk. There are about 30 houses in the vulnerable area. We urge the authorities to take immediate action to protect against further erosion and implement measures to prevent long-term damage.”

Residents have compiled a report detailing the damages and the status of relocated homes, which has been submitted to township authorities for urgent attention.