After the junta regained full control of the highway linking Mandalay, central Myanmar’s largest city, with Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin State, a convoy of hundreds of military vehicles carrying food and consumer goods arrived in Myitkyina, locals said.
According to junta-controlled state media, the convoy departed Mandalay on May 9 and arrived in Myitkyina on May 12.
State media reported that the convoy was welcomed by junta-appointed Kachin State Chief Minister U Khet Htein Nan, regional military commander Major General Aung Zaw Htwe, state cabinet members, government officials, residents and ethnic cultural organizations.
The convoy was reportedly also welcomed by local communities in Tigyaing, Katha, Indaw and Maw Luu townships in Sagaing Region along its route.
The convoy comprised more than 400 vehicles, including military trucks, civilian vehicles owned by traders and passenger buses.
The junta also claimed it would assist in rebuilding towns, villages, government offices, schools and hospitals damaged during clashes along the Mandalay-Myitkyina Highway, as well as support local recovery efforts.
According to state media, the convoy is carrying basic food supplies, medicine, school textbooks and fuel, which will be distributed to locals through relevant officials.
Travelers and bus operators said the reopening of the Mandalay–Myitkyina Highway on May 6 would help ease high prices in the region. They noted, however, that the junta instructed people to use only the main highway under its control and avoid alternative routes.
