Myanmar Earthquake Devastation: Death Toll Surpasses 1,600 as Aftershocks Continue

Myanmar Earthquake: The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday has claimed the lives of at least 1,644 people, as confirmed by the ruling junta government on Saturday evening. Earlier that afternoon, the government had reported 1,002 deaths, but just a few hours later, the toll had risen, highlighting the scale of the destruction. Rescue operations continue in both Myanmar and neighboring Thailand, and the number of casualties is expected to increase further. Here are the latest updates on the situation in Myanmar.

Myanmar’s Government Confirms Rising Death Toll

Myanmar’s military government has officially reported that 1,644 people have died, and 3,408 others have been injured in the wake of the earthquake. Additionally, 139 people are still missing. The earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 7.7, was followed by a second tremor of magnitude 6.7. These aftershocks have further intensified the damage across the country.

Another Earthquake Hits Myanmar Just Hours Later

On Saturday afternoon, around 3:30 PM, a new earthquake struck Myanmar, measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale. This marks the third earthquake to hit the region within two days, with magnitudes of 7, 6, and 5 or higher. The repeated tremors have only added to the challenges of rescue and relief operations.

Mandalay: The Worst-Affected City

Mandalay, a city with a population of 1.7 million, has been hit particularly hard. Many buildings have collapsed, and the number of people impacted is staggering. The city is struggling with a shortage of rescue personnel, and aid has been slow to arrive, further complicating the recovery efforts.

Casualties Mount in Mandalay and Naypyidaw

In Mandalay, the city closest to the earthquake’s epicenter, more than 694 people have died. The capital, Naypyidaw, has reported at least 94 deaths. These two cities are among the hardest hit by the earthquake, and the devastation is widespread.

Disruption of Daily Life Across Myanmar

The earthquake has thrown Myanmar’s daily life into disarray. People are waiting for relief, but roads have been severely damaged, making travel difficult. In the capital, long queues of buses and trucks are seen as transportation networks struggle to function due to cracks in the infrastructure.

Myanmar Seeks International Assistance

In an unprecedented move, Myanmar’s junta leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has appealed for international assistance. This is a rare step, as previous military governments have often refused foreign aid after natural disasters. The call for help comes as the country grapples with the scale of the tragedy.

Global Aid Efforts for Myanmar

International aid is pouring in from around the world. The United States, Russia, Malaysia, and Singapore have pledged to send relief materials and personnel. South Korea has committed $2 million in humanitarian aid, demonstrating global solidarity with the people of Myanmar in their time of need.

India Provides Immediate Assistance

India has also stepped forward with support. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar announced that an Indian Army field hospital unit, consisting of 118 personnel, has been dispatched to Myanmar to provide first aid and emergency medical care in Mandalay. Additionally, the Indian Navy has sent 40 tons of humanitarian supplies aboard INS Satpura and INS Savitri. Furthermore, an 80-member team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been sent to assist with relief efforts.

Prime Minister Modi Expresses Solidarity with Myanmar

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing on Saturday to express India’s solidarity with the people of Myanmar. Modi emphasized that, as a neighboring country, India stands united with Myanmar in this difficult time and is committed to providing support in the aftermath of the disaster.

Challenges in Relief Efforts Amid Ongoing Conflict

Aid agencies have raised concerns that Myanmar is ill-prepared to handle such a large-scale disaster. The country’s ongoing civil war has already displaced millions, and the earthquake has only worsened the situation. The lack of infrastructure and resources further complicates the delivery of aid and support to affected regions.

Thailand Also Affected by Earthquake Tremors

The earthquake’s impact was also felt in neighboring Thailand, where the capital, Bangkok, experienced tremors. At least nine people have been reported dead in Thailand, and around 100 workers are feared missing after a building collapsed in the city. The earthquake’s ripple effects have left a trail of destruction in the region.

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