June 18, 2024

The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has reopened the Kanpiketi trade route, which had been closed for five days, as of the morning of June 17, according to local sources. The road, which was shut down on June 12, is crucial for transporting fuel and other goods from China to Myitkyina and surrounding areas.

The Kanpiketi route includes several strategic locations, including Sadone, SAC military bases, people’s militia, and border guard posts. Since June 12, these points were seized and controlled by KIA and allied PDF forces, resulting in the temporary closure of the route.

“The reopening of the Kanpiketi road will allow fuel trucks from China to resume their operations. Without these deliveries, local residents have been struggling, with some even having to search for motorcycle fuel,” a local resident from Waingmaw told New Day Myanmar.

Myitkyina has been experiencing a fuel shortage for three days, leading to the closure of gas stations. The ongoing clashes between the KIA and SAC forces in the Myitkyina-Waingmaw area have exacerbated the situation, with both sides attempting to gain control over Waingmaw town.

Security has been tightened in Myitkyina by the SAC, and internet access has been disrupted in some areas of the city since the morning of June 17, as reported by a local resident.