Due to clashes between the Pa-O National Liberation Army (PNLA) and allied resistance forces against the Military Council in southern Shan State, approximately 100000 individuals have fled their homes.

"Since January 21st, fighting between PNLA-led resistance forces and Junta troops has erupted, eventually spreading to Hopong, Hsihseng, and Loilem townships. As a result, residents from six wards of these townships and around 120 nearby villages have been forced to flee, according to the Pa-O Youth Organization (PYO).

Numerous people displaced by war have found shelter in tranquil villages and townships like Taunggyi, Hopong, and Nyaungshwe, with some encountering food shortages as they seek refuge in forested areas, a Hopong-based aid worker told Shan Herald.

"Some individuals who are struggling to find shelter are forced to sleep on the forest's edge and at the base of the mountains. They are facing a scarcity of ground to take refuge in and are currently more concerned about finding food than securing clothing”, he said.

The majority of those seeking refuge in the forests are residents from villages like Pachakalo, Kyaukkachar, Panghlyan, and Loimun in Meneitaung District.

Furthermore, a Hsihseng-based aid worker reported that some individuals who fled Hsihseng are currently seeking temporary shelter in rock caves within the jungles and are in need of assistance.

"Currently, tens of individuals are living in these caves with minimal food and water. Their mindset is such that they no longer care about life or death. Unfortunately, no one is available to assist them due to the ongoing conflicts, and they are confronting a severe food shortage”, he reported.

Furthermore, the conflicts had led to a sharp increase in civilian casualties, with over 40 fatalities and more than 50 injuries, including women and children.