A catastrophic landslide tore through this Konesaung and Onget villages in Pangtara Township before dawn on July 28, claiming at least eight lives and leaving several others missing, according to local residents. The disaster has displaced hundreds, destroyed critical infrastructure, and exacerbated ongoing flooding across Shan State.

The landslide struck around 3 a.m. while villagers slept, obliterating homes, burying rice fields, and triggering massive erosion along a local stream.

Eight confirmed dead, with at least two still missing. Survivors fear the toll could rise as communication remains cut off in Onget village.

Over 50 families (approximately 600 people) are now sheltering in Theinkone and Konesaung monasteries, relying on dwindling supplies of boiled noodles and eggs.

“It came suddenly, without warning. The rice fields are gone. We have nothing to eat. This has never happened before,” said a distraught woman from Theinkone village.

The Pangtara, or Lawk Sawk road bridge was destroyed, severing access between towns. Nearby, the Shwe U Min Pagoda (Golden Cave) sustained damage from flooding.

Rice fields, a critical for local livelihoods, were buried under debris, raising fears of long-term food shortages.

Severe floods now affect Kalaw, Aungban, Ywangan, Nyaungshwe (Inle Lake), and Lawk Sawk, with emergency aid urgently needed.

Residents compare this year’s disaster to 2024’s devastating floods, which displaced thousands. “Last year was bad, but now roads are collapsing, and entire harvests are lost,” said a Ywangan resident. With monsoon rains continuing, fears grow that the worst is yet to come.

Local monks and volunteers are providing limited support, but food, shelter, and medical supplies are critically low. Authorities have yet to announce a coordinated relief effort, leaving survivors in dire straits.

As landslides and floods cripple Shan State, the international community watches for response efforts. For now, villagers brace for more rain, and more loss.

Relief organizations are mobilizing. Stay tuned for updates on donation channels.

Climate-linked disasters are escalating in Myanmar, with vulnerable communities bearing the brunt. This tragedy underscores the need for better early-warning systems and disaster preparedness.