Despite junta assurances that Myanmar has enough fuel reserves to last 40 days, residents in the country’s south are reporting severe shortages and mounting disruption.

Queues of cars and motorcycles have been forming at petrol stations in Mon State, Karen State and Tanintharyi Region, with some outlets already shutting down. In Mawlamyine, one resident described waiting behind 30 vehicles, only to be told supplies had run dry.

The shortages come in the wake of global tensions, including the recent US‑Israel strike on Iran, which raised fears that tankers may struggle to pass through the Strait of Hormuz—a key route for a quarter of the world’s fuel shipments. Local reports suggest imports have stalled, leaving storage tanks empty.

Border towns reliant on fuel from Thailand are among the worst affected. In Kawthaung, stations have closed, sparking alarm in the fishing industry. “Right now, Kawthaung is the worst‑affected town. Fuel is also running out in Ranong. Fishing boats could soon face problems,” said a maritime transport operator from Tanintharyi Region.

Prices have surged in both urban centres and resistance‑controlled areas. In Karen National Union territory, 92‑octane petrol has climbed above 10,000 kyats per litre, with supplies scarce even at inflated rates. A People’s Defense Forces official noted: “If it were still available to buy, it wouldn’t be a problem. But now the issue is that we can’t buy it at all.”

The regime has acknowledged transport difficulties and announced restrictions to manage demand. From 7 March, private vehicles must follow an odd‑even licence plate system, limiting when they can be driven.

For many in southern Myanmar, however, the measures offer little comfort. With fuel stations shuttered and livelihoods at risk, the crisis underscores how global shocks and domestic fragility are combining to squeeze everyday life.

-026-03-09

Some good news....5555.