Transport authorities have instructed the Shwe Pyi Tan express boat line to suspend its operations between the Arakan State capital Sittwe and Mrauk-U since August 29, according to manager U San Maw Thein.

The boat line was told to suspend operations by the Arakan State Inland Water Transport on August 29, one day after the Myanmar military and Arakan Army (AA) clashed near Lekka Village in Mrauk-U Township.

“They [Inland Water Transport] told me that they would inform us when we can resume operations. They have only suspended our operations between Sittwe and Mrauk-U,” said U San Maw Thein.

“Travellers will have some difficulties, because water transport is cheaper than road transport,” he added.

The Shwe Pyi Tan express boat line charges K6,000 per person for ordinary class and K7,000 per person for upper class to travel between Sittwe and Mrauk-U. By bus, it costs around K15,000.

Residents will be forced to incur higher transportation costs due to the suspension of the express boat service, complained a Mrauk-U resident.

“People will have to spend more on transportation if they need to travel for healthcare services or for business. Water transport is cheaper than road transport,” he said.

Myanmar’s military regime ordered all boat lines operating routes out of Sittwe to suspend operations after two junta soldiers were abducted by the Arakan Army in the Arakan State capital on June 23. The boat lines were only allowed to resume operations on July 2.