June 16, 2024

The Myanmar military junta cut off electricity to three townships in Sagaing Region—Butalin, Dipeyin, and Kani—starting June 14, 2024, according to local residents.

The power outage has severely impacted residents of Butalin, who are now facing difficulties not only with cooking but also with accessing water.

The junta’s troops shut down the electricity from the Butalin Township Electricity Sub-office, affecting villages within the township, as well as the distribution from the Thakhut Sub-office to eastern Kani Township and villages in Dipeyin Township.

While the power cut has not hindered the operations of local resistance groups, it has caused significant hardships for the civilian population, according to these groups.

Previously, these townships only had electricity during the night, which was primarily used for cooking and accessing water. The complete power cut has now made accessing drinking water a major challenge for the residents.

Local people report that the power cuts are adding to their daily struggles, particularly in securing enough water for their needs.