Myanmar Earthquake Aftermath: Over 1000 Dead, 2376 Injured; India Sends Aid, Thailand Also Affected, UN Pledges Support, Situation Critical.
Myanmar Earthquake Update: Following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on Friday, the country continues to experience aftershocks. According to the National Seismological Center (NCS), a 4.2 magnitude aftershock struck at 11:56 PM local time on Friday, further exacerbating the situation. While relief efforts have been intensified, Myanmar's military leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, has announced that the death toll is expected to rise. Currently, the confirmed death toll stands at 1002, with 1670 injured.
Aftershock Felt in Afghanistan Following Myanmar Earthquake
Following the devastating earthquake in Myanmar, a 4.7 magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan on Saturday morning. This earthquake, originating 180 km deep, has not yet been reported to cause any damage.
Widespread Destruction in Myanmar and Thailand
The powerful earthquakes in Myanmar and Thailand have caused widespread devastation. In Myanmar, the 7.7 magnitude earthquake destroyed buildings, bridges, and Buddhist monasteries. In Thailand's capital, Bangkok, the collapse of a building under construction resulted in at least 10 deaths.
Relief Efforts Ongoing in Myanmar
Myanmar, already grappling with a civil war, faces a severely aggravated situation following the earthquake. The military regime's strict control is hindering information flow, while the need for aid continues to escalate. The Myanmar military government has stated that the number of dead and injured is expected to increase.
India Sends 15 Tons of Relief Material to Myanmar
India has dispatched 15 tons of relief material to Myanmar in response to the disaster. The aid includes essential medicines, food supplies, and other relief items. An Indian Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft was deployed to assist the affected population.
International Relief Efforts for Myanmar
The United Nations has pledged $5 million in relief funds for Myanmar, while the then-US President Donald Trump also committed to assisting Myanmar. UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that resources are being mobilized for relief efforts.
Damaged Roads, Bridges, and Dams Hinder Rescue Efforts
Damaged roads, collapsed bridges, and broken dams resulting from the earthquake are impeding relief efforts in reaching remote areas of Myanmar. Mohammed Riyas, Myanmar Director of the International Rescue Committee, stated that assessing the full extent of the damage could take weeks.
Civil War Exacerbates Relief Challenges
The military regime and ongoing civil war in Myanmar have already displaced over 3 million people, with 20 million more in need of assistance. The need for international aid for relief efforts has intensified significantly.
Ongoing Relief Efforts for Myanmar
While earthquakes are not uncommon in Myanmar, the recent seismic activity has caused widespread fear. The Sagaing Fault, which experienced several powerful earthquakes between 1930 and 1956, continues to exert its influence.
Earthquake-Damaged Buildings
In Thailand, the earthquake resulted in 10 deaths and 101 missing persons. Many buildings in Bangkok were not designed to withstand the force of the earthquake, leading to significant damage.
WHO and Other Agencies Mobilize Aid to Earthquake-Affected Regions
The World Health Organization (WHO) has activated its logistics hub to accelerate relief efforts. Experts indicate a significant need for trauma supplies to treat the numerous injured resulting from the earthquake.
