Paddy Fields in Central Shan State Destroyed by Flood

Paddy Fields in Central Shan State Destroyed by Flood

Maihoong reported form Central Shan State that incessant monsoons destroyed thousands of acres of paddy fields in Laikha Township, Loilem District. 

"Heavy rain fell non-stop for five days, from 27 October until 1 November", said Maihoong. "Roads and bridges also broke down and cut off the town from the surrounding townships for many days". 

Laikha is 29 miles south of Mongkerng, 81 miles southeast of Monghsu, the booming gem town, and 26 miles north of Panglong, where the historic treaty between Burma and the Shan States, as it was then known, was signed in 1947. 

"Villagers are now wondering whether they are still obligated to fill the rice quota imposed by the junta", said Maihoong. "So far the officials have said nothing to relieve their fears". 

S.H.A.N. reported on 1 November about local junta officials forcing farmers to sell their harvest at official rate which was less than half the market price. 

[Junta Buys Rice Knockdown Prices, 1 November, S.H.A.N.]