More than 6,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in western Pai Khun (Pekon) Township, southern Shan State, are facing a critical shortage of drinking water and mounting medical needs, as ongoing fighting continues to prevent their return home.

The displaced residents have been sheltering in nearby villages and forested areas since September 2025, when a joint offensive by the military council and the Pa-O National Organization (PNO) intensified in western Pai Khun. More than four months later, they remain unable to return to their villages and are dependent on makeshift camps in areas with limited access to water.

Aid workers say access to clean drinking water has become the most urgent concern.

“Water supplies at IDP sites in western Pai Khun are now running out. Some displaced families have come to ask for assistance. The areas where they are sheltering are water-scarce and far from reliable sources. That is why they are facing severe difficulties accessing drinking water,” a local humanitarian worker told SHAN.

A military source involved in logistical support confirmed that the nearest reliable water sources are nearly two hours away by vehicle, forcing volunteers to transport water by car and motorcycle.

“The IDPs near us are far from water sources. We have to transport water by car because their area lacks reliable supplies. We collect drinking water from locations about two hours away,” the source said.

In addition to the water crisis, displaced families are in urgent need of medical care. Aid workers report increasing cases of illness linked to poor sanitation, inadequate nutrition, and prolonged exposure to harsh conditions in temporary shelters.

The displaced population originates from approximately 10 villages in western Pai Khun, including Baw Yan (Upper and Lower), Htee Ta Maung, Yae Aye Kone, Loi Lon, Kathe, Salone (South and North), and Yae Chan. Most families fled with little more than they could carry, and many have now been displaced for more than four months.

With no clear timeline for an end to the fighting, humanitarian workers warn that conditions are likely to deteriorate further unless immediate assistance—particularly water supply, sanitation, and medical support—is delivered to the IDPs in western Pai Khun.