Nationwide flooding, which began in mid-July and so far killed six people, has also affected more than 420,000 people in 98,000 households, according to the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement.
Bago, Ayeyawady and Yangon regions are still experiencing flooding, while some regions, including Kachin State and Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway regions shut down shelters as floodwaters receded. Nine townships in Bago Region, 12 townships in Ayayawady Region and three townships in Yangon Region are the latest areas hit by flooding, forcing the relocation of people in flood-hit areas to shelters.
The ministry has so far spent more than K 468 million in aid to the people affected by the floods. Vice President U Henry Van Thio, the chairman of National Natural Disaster Management Committee, met with flood victims in Moenyo Township, Bago Region and provided cash and gifts yesterday. Accompanied by Union Minister Dr Win Myat Aye, Bago Region Chief Minister U Win Thein, Deputy Minister Maj-Gen Aung Soe and officials, the Vice President visited a relief camp at the compound of Maha Thumingala Bronze Buddha Image in Moenyo.
Speaking words of encouragement, the Vice President stressed the need for a strong spirit to face the challenges of responding to disasters and pledged the government’s commitment to assisting flood recovery.
He also called for public participation in realisation of the government’s policies on systematic exploitation of natural resources and minerals and prevention of deforestation.
Next, flood victims in the township’s 27 relief camps were provided with cash and gifts including food supplies donated by the Ayeyawady Foundation and the Southern Command.
The Vice President then inspected flood damage to Khaungpin dyke and the Tapun-Natalin-Minhla-Moenyo dyke and coordinated matters to repair the dykes as soon as possible to mitigate the loss of farmlands.
On his arrival at a station hospital in Yaykin, the Vice President emphasized the need to keep antivenom ready for emergencies, take necessary measures against possible waterborne disease outbreaks and conduct personal hygiene education.
Next, he comforted the patients receiving treatment at the hospital and presented cash assistance to them.
During his stay in Moenyo, the Vice President also spoke words of encouragement while cordially meeting with flood victims in Kyun Nyo village.
GNLM with Myanmar News Agency