Soaring fuel prices force charities to halt operations in Dawei

By DMG 12 Aug 2022

DMG Newsroom
12 August 2022, Dawei 

Some charities in Dawei, Tanintharyi Region, have suspended operations after fuel prices soared to more than K2,000 per litre. 

Zabuthiri, a social organisation that provides free ambulance services for locals in Dawei, said it had halted its operations as of Thursday. 

“Fuel prices are fluctuating. We receive fewer donations from donors because of the current situation. It is difficult to buy fuel, and we are also short of funds. So, we have decided to halt operations until further notice,” said an official from the Zabuthiri social organisation. 

At least 10 other humanitarian organisations in Dawei have suspended their works due to rising fuel prices and financial difficulties, according to local residents, who are suffering as a result. 

“We have to rely on those organisations in cases of emergency. We don’t know where to ask for help now,” said one resident. 

As a major philanthropic enterprise that operates across Dawei District, the Zabuthiri organisation’s suspension means many locals will not have access to free ambulance services in cases of health emergencies. Zabuthiri was actively involved in saving many lives during Covid-19 outbreaks in the region.