Fatalities from boat capsizing incidents in Arakan State have steadily risen throughout this year's monsoon season, with at least 30 deaths recorded between May and September.

According to local reports, the fatalities include nine residents from Anjanapura and Myebon townships, 12 from Rathedaung Township, and nine from Taungup Township. The victims include students, teachers, and other education workers.

In a recent incident on August 30, a motorboat traveling from Ohphauk Village in Rathedaung Township to Nyaungchaung Village in Buthidaung Township capsized in rough waters. Nine passengers were rescued, but a schoolteacher drowned.

The tragedy has renewed calls for enhanced safety measures on local waterways, where safety equipment remains scarce.

“All passenger motorboats should carry life jackets or plastic containers for emergency flotation,” said an education worker from Buthidaung Township. “Teachers cannot afford to buy life jackets on their meager salaries. It would be best if the United League of Arakan (ULA) could provide them.”

Travelers across Arakan State rely heavily on both land and waterway transport. However, since the resurgence of armed conflict in the region, land routes have been severely disrupted or blocked, forcing residents to rely on hazardous water travel.

As a coastal territory with extensive river networks, Arakan State faces heightened risks during the annual monsoon season due to sudden flooding, high tides, and powerful currents.

“During this period, extra caution is vital when traveling by water,” said a resident of Werathani Township. “Weather conditions are unpredictable, and river currents here are notoriously swift. Travelers should exercise extreme caution—such as seeking shelter in safe tributaries—when high tides coincide with heavy rain and strong winds.”

Local authorities and community leaders continue to urge commuters and boat operators to adhere to basic safety precautions to prevent further avoidable loss of life during the remaining monsoon months.