More than 1,000 civilians displaced by renewed clashes in Naungcho (Nawngkio) Township, northern Shan State, are struggling with severe food and shelter shortages after fleeing to Nawngping and nearby villages in Kyaukme Township, local sources report.

The crisis follows intensified military operations by the junta in the Taung Hkan region of Naungcho Township, an area previously under the control of the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA). Since late April, residents from multiple villages, including Shwe Mot Htaw, Me Poke, Naung Lai, Narsho, Shwe Thun, and Kan Gyi have been forced to abandon their homes amid escalating violence.

Approximately 700 internally displaced persons (IDPs) are currently sheltering at a high school in Nawngping village, while others have sought safety in monasteries and private homes in nearby villages such as Lokepar, Kone Nyaung, and Htan Ta Bin.

“Around 650 people are staying at the Nawngping school, most of whom fled from Me Poke, Naung Lai, Narsho, Shwe Thun, and Kan Gyi,” a local source told SHAN. “Many have been displaced multiple times over the past year due to ongoing fighting in Taung Hkan. They urgently need food, shelter, and basic supplies.”

The displaced population consists largely of women, children, and the elderly. With the monsoon season worsening conditions, the need for mosquito nets, tarpaulins, and bedding has become critical.

“Some families are sleeping in tractors parked near monasteries, exposed to the rain,” the source added. “They’ve lost everything after fleeing previous conflict zones. Including those staying with relatives or in monasteries, the total number of displaced exceeds a thousand.”

The situation deteriorated further on May 29 when junta forces seized Shwe Mot Htaw village, detaining over 40 residents—both men and women. The military has intensified its campaign to retake Naungcho, deploying drones and airstrikes to gain an advantage over combined TNLA and Democratic Pa-O Liberation Army (DPLA) forces.

As of early June, junta troops continue advancing toward Shwe Mot Htaw and other TNLA-held villages, displacing more civilians across Naungcho Township. Many have been forced to seek refuge in Kyaukme and neighboring regions, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.