A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, causing over 1,000 deaths and injuring more than 2,376 people, with international aid being mobilized. Significant aftershocks and infrastructure damage have compounded the crisis, prompting appeals for support from Myanmar’s military leadership. Meanwhile, a related building collapse in Thailand has also resulted in fatalities.
On Friday, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake devastated Myanmar, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities and injuring more than 2,376 individuals. Rescue operations are currently in progress, and authorities anticipate that the number of casualties will continue to escalate. The tremors also inflicted damage in Thailand, leading to the collapse of a high-rise construction site in Bangkok, resulting in at least six deaths.
General Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar’s military leader, has made an uncommon appeal for international assistance, stating, “I have requested international support for relief efforts and have allowed some offers for support from AHA Center and India.” The initial quake occurred near Mandalay, accompanied by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock shortly thereafter, causing panic as residents in neighboring countries, including India and China, fled into the streets.
The US Geological Survey has indicated that the total number of deaths may surpass 10,000. Hospitals in Naypyidaw, Mandalay, and Sagaing are overwhelmed with casualties, prompting an urgent request for blood donations. Extensive devastation has been reported in Mandalay, with infrastructure severely affected, including roads splitting, buildings collapsing, and power outages.
Additionally, tremors impacted parts of China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, damaging structures and resulting in significant challenges for residents. At 11:56 pm local time, a further 4.2-magnitude aftershock heightened concerns regarding additional destruction and emergencies.
In response to this crisis, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has announced a $5 million allocation in emergency funds. “We are mobilising resources to support those affected,” he stated. Furthermore, India has quickly dispatched over 15 tonnes of essential supplies, including tents and food, through its Air Force. US President Donald Trump has confirmed ongoing monitoring of the situation, committing to support efforts in the region.
The earthquake’s repercussions extended to Thailand, with a 33-story building collapsing in Bangkok, resulting in six deaths and several injuries. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized the need for emergency agencies to remain vigilant for aftershocks and assess structural integrity in the capital.
Moreover, international figures, including Pope Francis, have expressed condolences and prayers for the victims. The Pope stated, “The pope has been informed of the disaster in Myanmar and is praying for the dramatic situation and for the many victims, also in Thailand.” Amnesty International remarked on the timing of this catastrophe, highlighting the added strain on Myanmar, where displacement and economic challenges already exist.
With rescue operations continuing and ongoing aftershocks complicating the situation, experts indicate a potential deterioration in circumstances as damaged infrastructure obstructs relief efforts. Thousands remain in dire need of shelter, medical assistance, and sustenance.
In summary, the recent earthquake in Myanmar has resulted in a catastrophic loss of life and significant injuries, with expectations for the death toll to rise further. The international community is stepping in to provide urgent aid, indicating a shift in Myanmar’s typical acceptance of foreign assistance. Moreover, the disaster’s consequences have extended into Thailand, contributing to casualties there as well. Given the ongoing search and rescue efforts, the situation remains precarious, necessitating immediate attention and resources to address the urgent needs of affected populations.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
