Over 3,000 Evacuated in Ayeyarwady Region Amid Dam Concerns

In a critical situation unfolding in Myanmar's Ayeyarwady Region, over 3,000 residents from 20 villages downstream of the Ma Mya Dam in Myanaung Township have been evacuated due to fears of a potential dam collapse. This evacuation began on Saturday as the dam's embankment showed signs of significant subsidence, raising alarms among local authorities and residents alike.

A resident from Myanaung, who requested anonymity, reported that the dam is perilously close to failure, with its height only about four feet above the current water level. As of October 11, regime media indicated that efforts led by the Ayeyarwady Region Chief Minister Aye Kyaw had managed to lower the water level in the dam's reservoir from 312 feet (95 meters) to 307 feet (94 meters). However, this is still concerning, as the reservoir’s water level had reached its full supply level of 315 feet (96 meters) on October 10.

“The dam is perilously close to failure, with its height only about four feet above the current water level.”Anonymous resident of Myanaung

The Ma Mya Dam, constructed in 2007, stands 150 feet (46 meters) tall and stretches 11,800 feet (3,597 meters) long, with a capacity to irrigate approximately 5,500 acres of agricultural land. Reports indicate that a 250-foot (76 meters) section of the embankment has subsided by more than 27 feet (8.2 meters) since October 10, prompting fears of flooding in both Myanaung and nearby Hinthada districts.

Previously, on July 31, flooding caused by an embankment collapse in the Ngawun River in Lemyethna Township had already affected over 150,000 residents across ten townships, highlighting the region's vulnerability to such disasters. The July incident resulted in significant damage to livestock, rice fields, and other crops, with at least two fatalities reported. The full extent of losses from that event remains unclear.

“Efforts led by the Ayeyarwady Region Chief Minister have managed to lower the water level in the dam's reservoir.”Regime media

Local authorities are currently focused on ensuring the safety of residents, with evacuation protocols in place as they monitor the dam's condition closely. The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) has been actively involved in assessing the risks and coordinating response efforts. The ongoing heavy rainfall in the region has exacerbated the situation, raising concerns about further flooding and its impact on local communities.

As the situation develops, the DDM is expected to continue providing updates and support to affected residents. The urgency of the situation reflects the broader challenges faced by communities in the Ayeyarwady Region, which has been grappling with severe weather conditions and their consequences on livelihoods and safety.