Students and EV Motorcycle Users Facing Difficulties Due to Lack of Electricity

Pajau Media

March 12, 2026

Residents of Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin State, say that frequent electricity shortages in recent days have created difficulties for students preparing for the matriculation examination, as well as for electric motorcycle users.

Currently, electricity in Myitkyina is being distributed only through a scheduled power-sharing system. However, power is often not supplied during the announced times, and even when electricity is available, it is provided only for short periods. As a result, students and electric motorcycle users are facing insufficient access to electricity.

Due to these electricity shortages, some residents are using generators, but the rising price of fuel has become another burden. Meanwhile, electric motorcycles are being charged using solar power where possible.

Because electricity is not available regularly, electric motorcycle users are paying fees at charging service shops. These charging service shops have started operating by installing solar panels to provide charging services. Depending on the type of motorcycle, charging once costs between 5,000 kyats and 8,000 kyats. At present, the price of 92 octane fuel has increased to around 9,500 to 10,000 kyats per liter.

Similarly, the 2026 matriculation examination for students will be held from March 11 to March 17, and students say the electricity shortage is disrupting their study time.

In Kachin State, electricity is currently supplied only from the Chihpwi Hydropower Plant, which distributes power to Myitkyina District and Mohnyin District. Although it was officially announced that electricity would be supplied for about six hours per day, in reality power is being distributed irregularly, sometimes 10 minutes, half hour, or two to three hours. Residents say that once the electricity goes out, it can sometimes take two to three days before it returns.

News: Htu Seng