IDPs in Kyauktaw struggle with collapsing shelters amid aid shortages

By Admin 06 Feb 2026

DMG Newsroom

6 February 2026, Kyauktaw

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) taking temporary shelter in camps across Kyauktaw Township, Arakan State, are facing severe accommodation hardships as many of their deteriorating shelters remain unrepaired due to financial constraints.

Residents report that floors are torn, roofing is worn, and several structures are leaning or at risk of collapse. Despite the dangers, IDPs continue to live in these shelters, unable to afford necessary repairs.

"The shelters have been deteriorating since last year. One eight-unit row house even collapsed during the rainy season. With the floorboards broken, it’s particularly dangerous for pregnant women and the elderly. Since we haven't received aid for a long time and are struggling just to survive, we cannot afford to repair our homes even though we want to," said U Maung Win Naing, assistant person-in-charge of the COC IDP camp in Kyauktaw.

The COC camp currently houses over 400 people who fled from Ponnagyun, Thandwe, and Ramree townships. Fourteen shelters have completely collapsed, while many others require urgent renovation. Residents fear that exposure to the elements will worsen if repairs are not carried out promptly.

"The houses are in a state where they are no longer habitable. We are even afraid to stay inside because the timber frames are broken. On the day the earthquake struck, we had to flee from the buildings. We are worried about how we will survive if more tremors occur," said Ma Htay Htay Ma, a resident of the COC camp.

Similarly, in the Kavi Yadana IDP camp, over 60 shelters are old and collapsing. Camp residents say they have received no aid and struggle to maintain the shelters on their own.

"It has been a long time since aid organizations visited us. Almost all of the 60 shelters are ruined. Even the floorings where we sleep are broken, making it very inconvenient. The roofing and walls are also torn. If it rains, it will be impossible to stay inside. We need to repair these homes before the rainy season starts," said the manager of the Kavi Yadana IDP camp.

The ongoing conflict in Arakan State, which began more than two years ago, has displaced around 600,000 people. Displaced communities continue to face severe hardships, including lack of food, healthcare, and adequate shelter.