The devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar continues to have a profound impact, with the death toll now reaching 1,644 according to the military government. Thousands more are injured, and dozens remain unaccounted for as rescue efforts are underway. The earthquake, which occurred at midday on Friday, was followed by multiple aftershocks, the strongest measuring 6.4. In Thailand, the quake also caused fatalities, with 10 reported deaths in the greater Bangkok area. In response to the crisis, several countries, including Malaysia, Russia, and China, have deployed rescue and relief teams to assist those affected.
In a significant development, Myanmar's shadow government, known as the National Unity Government (NUG), which leads the resistance against the military regime, has declared a unilateral partial ceasefire. This ceasefire aims to facilitate relief efforts in the hardest-hit regions. The NUG's armed wing, the People’s Defense Force, announced a two-week halt in military operations starting Sunday. They plan to work in conjunction with the United Nations and various NGOs to ensure security, improve transportation, and set up temporary medical and rescue camps in their controlled areas.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has issued a situation report outlining its relief plans. A total of $5 million has been allocated from the Central Emergency Response Fund for life-saving assistance. The report highlights severe damage to supply infrastructure and communication towers, resulting in disrupted electricity and water services, particularly affecting the Yangon Region. Immediate actions include a convoy of 17 cargo trucks loaded with essential shelter and medical supplies from China, expected to arrive shortly. The UN has also noted a critical shortage of medical supplies, including trauma kits and essential medicines, which is hindering response efforts.
As the situation unfolds, the confirmed death toll from the earthquake has sharply increased from 1,002 to 1,644, with the number of injured rising to 3,408 and 139 people reported missing. This alarming increase highlights the urgent need for effective rescue operations and humanitarian aid.
In an effort to aid those affected, Russia has dispatched a medical team equipped to treat earthquake victims, including specialists in infectious diseases and trauma care. Two planes carrying Russian rescue workers have arrived in Yangon, bringing with them advanced search and rescue equipment capable of locating individuals trapped under rubble. Meanwhile, Hong Kong has sent a dedicated team of 51 search-and-rescue personnel, equipped with nine tons of essential equipment, including life detectors and masonry cutting machines, to enhance relief efforts.
Significant infrastructure damage has been reported, including the collapse of the air traffic control tower at Naypyitaw International Airport. Satellite images reveal that the tower collapsed entirely, potentially disrupting air traffic in and out of the capital. It is unclear if there were any casualties among the staff who would have been present during the earthquake.
China has pledged 100 million yuan (approximately $13.8 million) in emergency humanitarian aid for earthquake relief efforts. An additional 82-member rescue team has been dispatched from Beijing, joining the initial responders from Yunnan Province. These efforts are complemented by the delivery of essential supplies, including tents and blankets. Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended his condolences to Myanmar’s military leader, Min Aung Hlaing.
New Zealand's Foreign Minister has announced support for relief efforts through the International Red Cross Movement, expressing sympathy for those affected. Additionally, South Korea has committed $2 million in humanitarian aid through international organizations to assist recovery efforts.
The aftermath of this catastrophic earthquake in Myanmar underscores the urgent need for international cooperation in disaster response. With a rising death toll and extensive injuries, the focus remains on providing immediate aid and restoring critical infrastructure. Global humanitarian efforts are crucial to support the recovery of those impacted by this tragic event.
