The Burmese military junta has announced restrictions on movement in Rangoon city as the date for the referendum in the 47 cyclone-hit townships in Rangoon and Irrawaddy division approach.

Local residents in Rangoon said police are doing the rounds in different townships. They are announcing the restrictions over megaphones.

"On May 23 and 24, residents of the 47 townships, who are to cast votes, have been notified not to move out of their townships," the announcement said.

The junta had postponed the referendum in 47 townships in Irrawaddy and Rangoon division to May 24 because of the cyclone, while the rest of the country went to the polls on May 10.

While the announcement does not specify any punishment for those who flout it, Rangoon residents said they were unable to understand the reason for the announcement.

"It sounds funny to hear that movement is being restricted even on the referendum day," a Rangoon resident, who heard the announcement, said.

With the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon scheduled to arrive on Thursday, residents in Rangoon said police patrolling have been intensified everywhere in the town.