Myanmar’s neighbors have sent warships, aircraft, and rescue personnel loaded with relief materials on Sunday as international aid efforts intensify following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the country on Friday. The powerful quake, one of the strongest to hit Myanmar in a century, has resulted in at least 1,600 deaths and over 3,400 injuries, according to the country’s military government.
The earthquake caused widespread destruction, including the collapse of critical infrastructure such as airports, highways, and bridges, hampering humanitarian efforts, the United Nations reported. Myanmar’s military chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, called for a coordinated medical response, urging military and civilian hospitals to work together to address the disaster.
International Aid Efforts Gain Momentum Amid Rising Casualties
The US Geological Survey has estimated that the death toll in Myanmar could surpass 10,000, with economic losses potentially exceeding the country’s annual output. The earthquake also impacted neighboring Thailand, where the collapse of an under-construction skyscraper in the capital killed 17 people and trapped 78 others.
In Myanmar, the devastating impact has left many areas without basic services like healthcare, with residents in the hardest-hit locations reporting a lack of government assistance. In Sagaing, near the epicenter, one resident shared that many buildings had collapsed, and the town had been without electricity and drinking water since the disaster. “We have received no aid, and there are no rescue workers in sight,” he said.
Myanmar’s Civil War Complicates Relief Operations
The tragedy comes at a time when Myanmar is already grappling with the fallout of a civil war sparked by the 2021 military coup. This ongoing conflict has displaced over 3.5 million people, crippled the economy, and left essential services in ruins. The opposition National Unity Government (NUG) has announced a two-week ceasefire starting Sunday to facilitate rescue operations, with anti-junta militias assisting in the effort.
Despite the efforts of local rescue groups, many areas, including the city of Mandalay, remain overwhelmed, and the lack of heavy machinery is hindering the rescue of trapped individuals. Hospitals are struggling to manage the influx of injured people, according to reports from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
Neighboring Countries Step Up Aid Efforts
India, China, and Thailand are among the countries that have sent aid, with military aircraft from India making multiple trips to Myanmar, delivering supplies and rescue teams. India has also deployed navy ships carrying supplies to Myanmar’s commercial capital, Yangon, and will help establish a field hospital in Mandalay.
China has dispatched several teams of rescue personnel, including one that crossed into Myanmar from its Yunnan province. Singapore also sent a 78-member team, including rescue dogs, to assist in Mandalay. These international teams are working alongside local efforts to search for survivors and provide essential relief.
