Flash Floods Wash Away 10 Homes and Connecting Bridges in Htalarhtu Village, Putao

Pajau Media

June 3, 2025

Flash floods have submerged nearly the entire Htalarhtu village in Putao, destroying homes and leaving residents in urgent need of assistance, according to local sources.

"Htalarhtu village is completely underwater—about 10 houses have been swept away. Nearby villagers and Putao locals are now helping to build temporary shelters," said a local pastor.

Htalarhtu, a small village in the Putao-Pannandin area, has only 14 households with around 80 residents. Ten of these homes were destroyed by the flash floods.

Though neighboring villages are providing aid, Htalarhtu residents still lack basic necessities, including food and daily supplies.

Additionally, at least five bridges connecting villages were washed away by the floods. A school in Ridam village, Khaunglanhpu Township, was also swept away by the rushing waters, locals reported.

Htalarhtu, accessible only by a 7-8 day trek from Nawngmun, had already suffered a devastating fire in 2022 and was still recovering when hit by this new disaster.

This year’s flash floods are the worst in recent memory for Putao. With heavy monsoon rains expected to continue, locals remain on high alert.

News – Pilan U