By Ra Wai / MPA
A critical supply chain collapse in Myanmar’s Sagaing Region has left residents of Kanbalu District facing severe food shortages, with the price of a single egg reportedly reaching 1,500 Kyats (approx. $0.40–$0.70 at unofficial rates).
The crisis stems from the prolonged closure of the Shwebo-Myitkyina strategic highway, a vital artery connecting upper and lower Myanmar. Since December 18, 2025, both the military junta and local resistance forces (PDF) have blocked sections of the road due to escalating military tensions in the area.
According to Infinity Group, a local monitoring organization, the blockade has paralyzed the local economy.
“The strategic road is blocked by both sides as fighting intensifies,” a representative from Infinity Group told MPA. “Fuel prices have surged to nearly 25,000 Kyats per liter, and even basic staples like eggs are now costing 1,500 Kyats each.”
The official emphasized that the highway’s importance extends beyond Kanbalu, acting as a regional lifeline. “The military situation is too complex to provide further details, but the impact on civilians is devastating,” he added.
The humanitarian situation is further compounded by conflict near the Thaphan Seik Dam in Kyunhla Township. Military tensions have persisted there for over two months, preventing the release of water for summer paddy cultivation—a move that threatens the region’s future food security.
On the night of February 18, the crisis took a violent turn when two military fighter jets conducted airstrikes on the villages of Ywa Kone Gyi and Naung Oo. While no casualties were reported, local infrastructure, including a school and a community hospital in Ywa Kone Gyi, suffered significant damage.
Kanbalu District, which comprises the townships of Kanbalu, Kyunhla, Zigon, and Htankone, now finds itself trapped between an active frontline and a rapidly worsening economic catastrophe.
