The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) has closed the main highway linking Muse and Namhkam towns in northern Shan State’s Muse District, without providing a specific reason.

Access to the Muse–Namhkam section of the Union Highway has been blocked by the TNLA since 6:00 am on July 31, according to a Namhkam Town resident who spoke to the Shan Herald.

“The TNLA suddenly closed the road without giving any reason. Now traders, students, and travelers are all having a hard time because of it. Even trucks from Muse are stuck in Namhkam and still haven’t been able to return,” he said.

The TNLA has set up roadblocks at two locations: Manhkam Ward in Namhkam Town, and Hsenghkawng Village, which is part of the Seilant Village Tract in Muse Township.

A 40-year-old female trader said the road section between the TNLA’s checkpoints is now closed to cars and motorbikes, allowing only pedestrians, which has caused significant difficulties for travelers and locals.

“We can still enter the closed section on foot, but cars and motorbikes aren’t allowed anymore. People in Namhkam Town usually buy goods from Muse and bring them back by car. Now, everyone’s having a tough time because of the road closure,” she said.

The TNLA has controlled Namhkam Town since December 18, 2023. In late July, it also ordered the closure of several roads in the region.

On July 28, the TNLA shut down the Mogok-Kyaukme-Momeik (Mongmit)-Singu-Thabeikkyin Road, which leads to Mogok Town under its control in Mandalay Region, along with parts of the Ohmati-Ohmakha-Monglon and Twinnge-Monglon roads, citing damage from floods and landslides.