India has sent 15 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Myanmar following earthquakes that have claimed 694 lives and injured 1,670 individuals. The region continues to experience aftershocks, adding to the urgency of rescue efforts and raising alarm about structural damage and ongoing seismic activity.
In response to the devastating earthquakes that impacted Myanmar, India dispatched over 15 tonnes of humanitarian aid on Friday. The Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J aircraft, departing from Air Force Station Hindon, carried essential supplies such as tents, blankets, water purifiers, ready-to-eat meals, solar lamps, generator sets, and critical medical items including paracetamol, syringes, antibiotics, bandages, hygiene kits, and gloves.
The death toll from the earthquakes has tragically risen to 694, with at least 1,670 individuals injured, according to reports from Reuters. The ruling military government of Myanmar has disseminated these figures in an official statement. Military leader Min Aung Hlaing has ordered urgent rescue and relief efforts in affected regions, emphasizing the need to assist survivors and mitigate further casualties. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of panic, with individuals fleeing swaying buildings amid the tremors.
Following the main earthquake, which registered a 7.2 magnitude, the region endured a 6.4 magnitude aftershock, along with additional tremors, including a 4.9 magnitude quake. The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) confirmed these seismic activities occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, raising concerns about more potential aftershocks. On the same night, at 11:56 PM local time, a further 4.2 magnitude earthquake struck at a similar depth and specific coordinates.
The earthquakes inflicted significant structural damage across the region. Reports indicate that a 30-story building under construction in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district collapsed, trapping 43 workers. Additionally, dramatic footage showed a bridge over the Irrawaddy River in Mandalay collapsing during the tremors, sending debris into the water and creating a cloud of dust.
In summary, the earthquakes in Myanmar have resulted in a rising death toll, extensive injuries, and significant structural damage. India has provided immediate humanitarian aid to assist those affected. With ongoing seismic activity, the region remains on alert for further aftershocks and their potential impacts.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
