Due to Escalating Conflict, KIA Closes Waingmaw-Lamyang Road Indefinitely

Pajau Media

July 17, 2025

Amid renewed fighting in the Waingmaw area, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has indefinitely closed the Waingmaw-Wuyan-9 Mile-Nan Zaw Yang-Lamyang road since July 16, 2025.

Following the military junta’s blockade of the Waingmaw-Wuyan main road, the KIA’s closure of this alternative route is aimed at ensuring civilian safety amid intensifying conflict, according to local authorities.

With rising tensions in Waingmaw, many internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been returning home, but travel has become difficult due to the road closures. A displaced person said the road has often been opened and closed depending on fighting. Since the main road was blocked, locals have relied on this route, which features heavy checkpoints and gate fees imposed by armed groups on both sides, especially near the IDP camps in Maina. He added that if this road remains closed, alternate routes may be reopened.

The military junta continues daily air and drone strikes, as well as heavy artillery shelling targeting Waingmaw-Wuyan-Lamyang areas.

News – Pilan U