CNI News
May 12, 2026
Local residents have stated that commodity prices in the region will only decrease and the flow of goods regain momentum if the government can provide full security for the Mandalay–Indaw–Myitkyina route.
The road connecting Mandalay, Thabeikkyin, Madaya, Tagaung, Tigyaing, Indaw, Mawlu, Nantsiaung, Mohnyin, Mogaung, and Myitkyina was previously controlled by KIA and PDF forces. This control halted the flow of goods, forcing the public to face the burden of exorbitantly high commodity prices.
Following military operations lasting over one year and three months, the Myanmar military regained control of the Mandalay–Indaw–Myitkyina route and reopened it on May 6, 2026.
However, Myitkyina residents point out that if the entire route is not fully secured, it will not alleviate the rising prices currently faced by the public. Khun Tu, a resident of Myitkyina, told CNI News that the military’s efforts to control the road would be more effective if carried out in cooperation with the local population.
"Even though they have recaptured the towns along this route, if they cannot control the entire stretch of the road, we might be able to travel, but we will still have to pay 'taxes' [to various armed groups]. If taxes are still being collected, I don't think commodity prices will drop significantly. Once they dominate this territory, they must provide full security along the entire road for things to truly improve. If they cooperate with the public, the locals know best where the PDFs and enemies are hiding. Therefore, I think it would be successful if they work together with the people."
Military forces (Myanmar Tatmadaw) taking control of the Mandalay–Indaw–Myitkyina route.
Currently, although the Mandalay–Indaw–Myitkyina road has been reopened, it is reported that mainly private passenger cars are using it rather than cargo trucks, as most transporters are still using the Mandalay–Shwebo–Myitkyina route. Authorities have encouraged the public and traders to utilize the Mandalay–Indaw–Myitkyina route instead of the Shwebo alternative.
U Kun Gawng Awng Kham, a Kachin political analyst, told CNI News that whichever group controls and opens the road must take responsibility for the security of the traveling public.
"Regardless of who is in control, we want this highway to be open. If it is open, it needs to function smoothly. No matter which side opens it, if there are constant inspections, the public will face difficulties. What we need is for the roads to open normally. Regarding security, when the PDFs and allied forces were in control, they took charge of security; now that the military is moving to reopen these sections, the relevant troops must take responsibility to keep it open."
Military forces (Myanmar Tatmadaw) taking control of the Mandalay–Indaw–Myitkyina route.
When the route was previously under the control of revolutionary forces, traveling from Mandalay to Myitkyina took between four to six days, and at times, hundreds of vehicles were stranded.
Locals hope that if the newly reopened Mandalay–Indaw–Myitkyina route becomes safe and convenient, the journey between the two cities could be completed in a single day, which would lead to a moderate decrease in commodity prices in Myitkyina and surrounding areas.
Furthermore, Myitkyina residents added that if the Mandalay–Myitkyina railway could be reopened in addition to the highway, it would be even more beneficial for the flow of goods and general transportation.
