MASSIVE FLOODING AROUND LAKE INLE, MYANMAR

Support the Intha Tribe: Inle Lake Flood Relief Fundraising Appeal

We are deeply saddened to share the devastating impact of the recent floods on the Intha tribe, who call Inle Lake their home. Already grappling with the ongoing political crisis in Myanmar, the community now faces the challenge of rising floodwaters that have overwhelmed the region. Within hours, nearly five feet of water submerged key areas, including the iconic Inle Heritage and Inle Princess, with both facilities now under over four feet of water. The region’s distinctive stilt houses have also been heavily affected.

Despite the devastation, the resilience of the Intha people is remarkable. The team members, students, and families of Inle Heritage and Inle Princess remain safe and united, doing everything they can to support each other. They continue to extend help to those most in need, even as they face significant losses themselves.

In Nyaung Shwe Township, which encompasses the Inle region, the scale of the disaster is staggering. The township comprises 35 village tracts with 445 villages, home to 38,438 households and a population of 167,257 people. Out of this, the flood has affected 177 villages, 20,727 households, 17,832 homes, and approximately 74,212 people. These figures are estimates, and the actual on-ground numbers may vary. The situation is further exacerbated by the presence of internally displaced persons (IDPs) who fled due to conflict and are now unable to return to their homes.

In addition to the immediate impact on homes and infrastructure, vast areas of farmland have been submerged under water, leading to significant crop loss. This will not only affect the livelihoods of local farmers but also result in a diminished food supply for the community in the months ahead. The floodwaters have also damaged critical roads and infrastructure, severely disrupting supply chains and complicating the delivery of much-needed relief.

Among those deeply impacted is Ma Myo Mint, a dedicated canteen cook. Her house has been submerged up to the roof, but her fighting spirit is a beacon of hope. Her courage, captured in a photograph amidst the floodwaters, is truly admirable.

The community’s immediate needs include access to clean water, food, and medical supplies. However, the long-term recovery will require rebuilding homes, restoring livelihoods, and supporting displaced families. We are reaching out to the global community to ask for urgent assistance in providing the necessary relief.

Your donations will directly aid those affected by supplying essential resources and helping rebuild the homes and businesses crucial to the survival of this community.

To support the Intha tribe during this challenging time, please visit https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/2187411 and make a contribution. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a meaningful impact.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Together, we can help the Intha people of Inle Lake rebuild their lives and look toward a brighter future.