The number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nawngping Village Tract, Kyaukme Township, northern Shan State, has exceeded 2,000 amid intensified airstrikes and artillery shelling by the Myanmar military (the State Administrative Council).

Attacks have escalated not only in Kyaukme but also in neighboring Nawnghkio (Naung Cho) Township, forcing civilians to seek refuge in monasteries and makeshift shelters.

Local humanitarian workers report that displaced families are struggling to meet basic needs, relying primarily on food aid from the Shan State Joint Action Committee (SSJAC). “We initially had around 1,000 IDPs, but now the number has doubled, and it’s still rising,” a volunteer assisting displaced communities told SHAN. “If this continues, our resources won’t last.”

The relentless airstrikes are taking a severe psychological toll, particularly on women and children. Unlike previous attacks, residents now receive little to no warning before bombs strike.

“Before, we could hear aircraft before the bombing started. Now, explosions happen almost as soon as the jets appear,” an aid worker explained. “Children are terrified. Any loud sound sends them into panic. It’s deeply traumatizing.”

While some families with means have fled to Lashio, Mong Yai, or Taunggyi, many elderly and vulnerable individuals remain trapped, unable to afford relocation.

Amid ongoing clashes, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), which controls Kyaukme, has ordered a shutdown of all Starlink satellite internet services in the area, citing security concerns.

“They have cut off all Starlink connections, even private ones,” a Kyaukme resident said. “If you need to contact loved ones, you must leave town entirely. No official reason was given, but many suspect it’s to prevent intelligence leaks.”

Fighting between TNLA and junta forces has also intensified near Nawnghkio, where military troops have reportedly entered outlying neighborhoods. The strategic Gote Twin Road, a critical link between Kyaukme and Nawnghkio, has been closed since July 10 due to heavy combat. On July 13, the Gote Twin Bridge was destroyed by mines, severing vital transport and aid routes.

The junta has ramped up airstrikes across TNLA-held territories, including Hsipaw, Mong Mit, and Mongkut townships, in what observers believe is an attempt to strengthen its negotiating position ahead of planned August peace talks.

Since June 24, humanitarian groups have recorded at least seven airstrikes in Kyaukme and two in Hsipaw, killing 12 civilians and wounding over 30.

As violence escalates, displaced communities face dwindling supplies and mounting trauma, with no clear end in sight.