The United League of Arakan/Arakan Army (ULA/AA) reports that the cyclone in Rakhine state has destroyed about 216,681 houses, affecting over one million residents, and causing an estimated damage of around US$1.5 billion.
According to U Khaing Thu Kha, a spokesperson for the Arakan Army (AA), the organization is actively engaged in efforts to rehabilitate the areas affected by the cyclone that inflicted significant damage in Rakhine State.
He stated, "As the ULA/AA, we are working diligently, dedicating one battalion per village to reconstruct houses, fix the slanted ones, and restore the cleanliness of the villages. Our efforts are focused on systematically improving each village, one at a time."
U Khaing Thu Kha revealed that an alarming number of 216,681 houses were demolished in the townships of Rakhine State as a result of the cyclone, leaving over one million residents severely impacted by the disaster.
The cyclone caused immense devastation in multiple townships of Rakhine State, including Sittwe, Kyauktaw, Rathedaung, Pauktaw, Mrauk U, Ponnagyun, Minbya, and Myebon. Approximately 90 percent of the houses in these areas were destroyed due to the cyclone's impact.
While a significant number of houses in the town have been nearly restored, it is concerning that manual workers residing in the villages have not yet been able to repair their own houses.
According to U Khaing Thu Kha, the cyclone resulted in unfortunate casualties in Rakhine State. The reported figures indicate 146 deaths, with the highest number recorded in Sittwe Township (96), followed by Rathedaung Township (37), Pauktaw Township (7), Ponnagyun Township (4), and Kyauktaw Township (2). Furthermore, 10 individuals sustained injuries, and 3 people are currently reported as missing.
The list of deceased individuals mentioned is a compilation of confirmed information gathered by ULA/AA troops, as well as the identification and collection of bodies conducted by them in coordination with the affected families.
According to the list provided by ULA/AA, the devastating impact of Cyclone Mocha resulted in the destruction of significant infrastructure in Rakhine State. The figures indicate that 1,507 religious buildings, 971 schools, and 252 hospitals/clinics were destroyed. Additionally, a total of 15,388 cattle lost their lives. The estimated value of the overall damage amounts to approximately 1.5 billion dollars.
U Khaing Thu Kha stated, "The estimated value of the damage amounts to $1.5 billion. Therefore, we require a minimum of $1 billion to initiate the rebuilding process."
Ethnic armed organizations have contributed funds to support the cyclone-affected individuals in Rakhine State through the United League of Arakan/Arakan Army (ULA/AA). With these generous donations, they are actively engaged in providing emergency food and shelter to those affected by the cyclone.
U Khaing Thu Kha further mentioned that in Rakhine State, where 70 percent of the population consists of farmers, the Arakan Army (AA) is actively preparing to engage in rice cultivation before the upcoming season.
"As the rainy season approaches, it is crucial for us to have the opportunity to cultivate rice prior to the rains. If we are unable to plant rice, it will pose challenges during the dry season next year. However, if we can successfully plant rice, it will alleviate this concern. In Rakhine, where 70 percent of the population relies on farming, we are also making preparations by providing tractors and other necessary equipment to facilitate the rice cultivation process," he said.
According to the residents, despite the onset of the rainy season, they are facing significant challenges in rebuilding their homes, and many families continue to endure hardships in terms of their livelihoods.
According to the official list provided by the Military Council, The cyclone that struck Rakhine State on May 14 had a significant impact, affecting approximately 1,156,796 people. Tragically, 148 individuals lost their lives, and 62 others sustained injuries. The destruction caused by the cyclone resulted in the loss of 241,071 buildings and 716 vehicles and vessels. Additionally, 27,617 domestic animals perished, and the overall estimated damage is valued at 4,898.6 million kyats.
