by Hafizur Rahman
Maungdaw, Arakan, September 12, 2025 — The Arakan Army (AA) has reopened the Kyain Chaung–Maungdaw–Kyauk Pandu highway, but Rohingya communities say they remain trapped under harsh travel restrictions that prevent them from moving freely.
Road Opened, But Not for Rohingya
Although the road was officially reopened on September 3, residents said only non-Muslims are allowed to travel. Rohingya remain banned from using the route. Locals described the situation as comparable to being confined in a Nazi concentration camp.
A Rohingya man from Maungdaw explained:
“On August 31, we heard gunshots between Kyikanpyin and Maungnuma villages. At first, we thought it was fighting with Rohingya groups, but later we saw it was AA soldiers shooting at each other. At least two AA soldiers died. After that, they used the incident as an excuse to block us.”
“We Feel Like Prisoners”
Another resident said:
“AA is letting others travel, but we are still not allowed. We feel like prisoners inside our own town, cut off from both the north and south.”
Health Crisis Under Restrictions
The travel ban has created a severe health crisis for Rohingya. Patients are unable to reach hospitals in Maungdaw or Kyain Chaung. Pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses are among the most at risk.
“We can’t go for medical treatment. Patients who need regular care, especially pregnant women, are in deep trouble,” a Rohingya woman said.
Fear of Prolonged Hardship
Residents warn that if restrictions continue, they will face growing hunger, hardship, and isolation. Many fear that the situation is part of a deliberate attempt to further weaken Rohingya communities in northern Rakhine.
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