A devastating earthquake in Myanmar has claimed over 2,880 lives, leaving thousands injured and homeless. On Wednesday, rescue teams in Mandalay pulled a survivor from the debris five days after the disaster. Despite ongoing search efforts, hopes of finding more survivors are fading. Meanwhile, aid groups and international organizations urge the government to prioritize relief efforts over military operations.
Rescue Efforts Continue Amid Destruction
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck on March 28, flattening buildings and infrastructure across central Myanmar. According to state-run MRTV, 2,886 people have died, 4,639 are injured, and 373 remain missing.
Rescue workers, including a joint Myanmar-Turkish team, successfully saved a 26-year-old hotel worker trapped under rubble in Naypyidaw. A video shared by Myanmar’s Fire Services Department showed the man conscious but dazed as he was carried out on a stretcher.
Widespread Devastation and Aid Shortages
Entire towns, including Sagaing, suffered severe damage. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that one in three houses collapsed in some areas. Healthcare facilities, already weakened by conflict, struggle to treat the large influx of injured people. Supplies of food, water, and medicine are running dangerously low.
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Civil War Complicates Relief Operations
Myanmar’s ongoing civil conflict is hindering relief efforts. Despite the humanitarian crisis, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing announced that military operations will continue. In contrast, some ethnic armed groups and People’s Defense Forces have declared a temporary ceasefire to assist with earthquake recovery.
The United Nations and human rights organizations have urged all parties to pause hostilities and focus on humanitarian aid. UN special envoy Julie Bishop emphasized the need to protect civilians and aid workers.
Aid Convoy Faces Military Blockade
Tensions escalated when Myanmar’s military fired warning shots at a Chinese Red Cross aid convoy. The junta claimed the convoy entered a conflict zone without clearance. However, China urged Myanmar to ensure the safety of relief workers and keep aid routes open.
Many affected regions, particularly in Sagaing, remain difficult to access. Armed resistance groups control some areas, and the junta’s internet and phone blackouts have made communication challenging.
Global Condemnation of Military Actions
International organizations and governments condemned the junta’s continued military attacks. Amnesty International called Myanmar’s actions inhumane, stating, “You cannot ask for aid with one hand and bomb with the other.”
Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong also criticized the airstrikes, demanding that Myanmar’s military immediately cease operations and allow unrestricted humanitarian aid.
Thailand’s Death Toll Rises
The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar. In Bangkok, Thailand, a 30-story building under construction collapsed, trapping workers inside. The death toll there has reached 22, with over 70 people still missing as search efforts continue.
As the crisis unfolds, Myanmar’s people remain in urgent need of aid and relief, while the world watches how the government responds to the disaster.
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