CNA/ Myat Thu
According to those who are helping refugees, there is a need to provide warm clothes and blankets for the more than 600,000 refugees in Rakhine to get through the coming winter.
Since the resumption of fighting in Rakhine on November 13, 2023, the number of refugees has increased to over 600,000. These displaced individuals are living in monasteries, schools, and makeshift shelters, using tarpaulins for covering and flooring.
“Currently, as the winter season is approaching, the refugees are preparing to withstand the cold, we are working to collect warm clothes and blankets in advance and distribute them around November so that these refugees can survive the winter cold,” said to CNA by the writer, Wai Hin Aung, who is assisting with the needs of the refugees.
“When considering how to combat this winter, the first priority is to ensure timely delivery of warm clothing and blankets. If these cannot be provided on time, there are concerns about vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, children, and pregnant women, who could suffer more. Therefore, when thinking about solutions to this issue, it is crucial to purchase and stock up on these items. Distribution is expected to take place around mid-November,” he said.
“Currently, about 3,000 pieces of clothing have been collected, but there is a significant shortage of donors. It is said that donors are still needed.”
“When the fighting broke out, local people fled with only one piece of clothing, leaving everything behind. As a result, to survive the upcoming winter season, warm clothing, blankets, food, and medicine are urgently needed.”
A refugee from Thandwe Township said, ”I am really grateful for the warm clothes and blankets being donated. Right now, it’s getting cold, and when we fled our homes, we brought nothing but one piece of clothing. We are just trying to get by, but for older people, it will be quite difficult in the winter.”
In the past, Rakhine was one of the states where NGOs and INGOs worked the most, but when the current conflict started, the areas where these organizations could work have significantly diminished. Various groups have left Rakhine, and many have also faced restrictions on movement imposed by the military council, leading to a considerable number of organizations having to withdraw.”
“However, since the refugees who are currently suffering from the war are Rakhine people, they are trying to provide the best possible support without neglecting them.” said by those working to help the refugees.
