The issuance of night-time curfew has taken a toll on the grass-roots in four townships of Mon State and makes it difficult for the root collectors to earn their living.

Daw Hla Si, a vegetable seller from Thanphyuzayat Township said: “The candlelight market normally begins at around 2-3 am in the morning. Then sellers have to resell vegetables at their villages. We don’t dare to go outside due to the orders. We are very tired as we have to sell them in the afternoon instead of early morning.”

Rubber plantation workers in Ngapa village also expressed their concerns as they have to do their work at night. Roadside food vendors earn less income as they have to go home before 8 p.m.

The curfew (Section 144) orders were imposed in more than 90 townships nationwide including Kyaikhto, Mawlamyine, Thanphyuzayat and Yay Townships in Mon State since February 8th

The authorities have placed a ban on gatherings of more than five persons and issued the night-time curfew from 8 pm to 4 am.