Myanmar Earthquake: Inle Lake Communities Struggle to Rebuild

© Zar Pann Phyu 

More than a month after a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, communities in Inle Lake, southern Shan State, are still grappling with widespread destruction and loss.

The lake’s traditional stilt-house villages were especially vulnerable—up to 90% of homes in some areas were damaged or destroyed. Many residents, like Ma Thazin, describe terrifying experiences as their homes collapsed into the water. Some families now live in tents, boats, or crowded shelters on dry land. Access to clean water, housing materials, and boats remains limited, and with the rainy season approaching, the risk of floods adds further urgency to rebuilding efforts.

Ma Thazin and her husband barely escaped their collapsing home and now live apart from other family members due to overcrowding and safety concerns. The high cost of reconstruction—around $14,000–$19,000 USD per wooden house—and rising prices for boats and materials have made recovery especially difficult. The emotional toll has been immense. “We do not know how to start over again,” said Ma Thazin, who has faced multiple disasters in the past three years.

Daw May Lwin, another Inle Lake resident, was thrown into the water when a tower collapsed while she was washing clothes. She struggled to escape through thick mud and debris but survived. Her 89-year-old paralyzed mother was trapped alone during the quake. Their two-story house was badly damaged, and their floating vegetable farm—vital to their livelihood—was destroyed. The family now lives with relatives in a damaged but reinforced house.

Many villagers remain traumatized, suffering from insomnia, anxiety, and physical ailments. “I couldn’t speak or eat properly for 20 days,” Daw May Lwin shared. She now cares for her mother full-time, unable to restart farming.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is supporting four villages around the lake, distributing bamboo, wood, nails, and other essentials to help build temporary shelters. Despite these efforts, the needs remain urgent, especially as communities brace for monsoon season. For those who have lost homes, farms, and family unity, the path to recovery remains uncertain.

-2025-05-20