The Pon Chaung displacement camps for war refugees, located on the east side of Dee Maw Hso Township in Karenni State, still need rehabilitation assistance after being hit by floods, according to aid workers.

“When the flood hit, schools had to close, and people had to relocate. They are struggling to get back on their feet, especially with the schools still closed for the children,” an official from the Nway Oo Guru organization told Kantarawaddy Times.

It is also reported that six schools in these displacement camps remain closed.

Although the flooding have receded, the displaced people in Pon Chaung camp are still relying on aid from flood relief organizations for food and other necessities.

Further assistance is urgently needed as the floodwaters swept away their shelters, cooking utensils, and other essential belongings. The displaced communities are also worried about next year’s food security, as the sesame crops they cultivated for income were destroyed by the flood.

“This year, the sesame yield and plant growth were much better than in previous years. So, they feel like their hopes have been dashed by the flood,” the official from Nway Oo Guru continued.

Last year, the price of sesame was 4,000 kyats per viss [approximately 3.6 lbs], but this year the market price has reached 8,000 kyats. There are seven sections in the Pon Chaung displacement camp, with over 700 households and nearly 2,600 people.

Displaced people whose homes were washed away are now sheltering in village halls and schools.

Although schools were closed due to flooding in Karenni State during September; Kantarawaddy Times has not yet been able to confirm the exact number of schools.