Thai-Myanmar gates reopen after sudden closure

The Burmese border town of Phayathonzu, straddling Thailand and Myanmar, was thrown into chaos when its gates were abruptly shut on August 16. The gates, crucial for the movement of goods and people, left locals in a lurch. However, on August 20, relief came as the gates were reopened, much to the delight of residents and traders, one Phayathonzu local said.

“From this morning, people have been freely crossing the border again, including through the Kyaung Pauk Wa gate in Ward 1.

“Coffee milk packages are finally being transported to the Thai side. Essential items like rice, onion, and chilli powder can be imported again. When the border was suddenly closed, goods stranded on the Myanmar side were finally allowed to be delivered.”

The border closure had caused significant disruption, particularly for Myanmar migrant workers who rely on daily access to the Thai side for employment. Schoolchildren who attend classes in Thailand were also left stranded, and vendors who frequent the Shan market in Thailand faced severe setbacks.

The shutdown was a response to protests by locals on the Thai side, who blocked Road No. 323, connecting Samkhla Buri and Dulaghapon in Kanchanaburi province. This led to a halt in the flow of goods, workers, students, and vendors, all of whom were left in limbo.

In desperation, Phayathonzu residents staged their protest on August 17, demanding the reopening of the gates. The outcry prompted border officials from both countries to negotiate, leading to the eventual reopening.

In total, 22 border trade gates, including the Phayathonzu Border Gate, have resumed operations, though locals report frequent closures and reopenings.

Among the officially opened crossings are Tachileik-Mae Sai, Myawady-Mae Sot, Htikhee-Phu Nam Ron, and Kawthoung-Ranong, where people can now travel using passports or temporary permits, reported The Nation.

In related news, an anti-human trafficking organisation urgently called upon then-Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to assist 21 Moroccan citizens trapped by a scammer gang on the Thai-Myanmar border. This plea came after months of inaction from various agencies.