Myanmar Earthquake: Death Toll Surpasses 1,000 as International Aid Arrives
Foreign rescue teams have begun assisting Myanmar following a devastating earthquake that claimed over 1,000 lives. The earthquake’s impact has heavily damaged infrastructure, worsening an ongoing civil war. Countries are already sending aid, but the situation remains critical with casualties expected to rise further.
On Saturday, foreign rescue teams began arriving in Myanmar to assist in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake that has resulted in over 1,000 fatalities. The military government reported the death toll at 1,002, significantly higher than the earlier estimates of 144 from Friday. This disaster has severely damaged critical infrastructure, exacerbating the ongoing civil conflict in the country.
The 7.7 magnitude quake not only affected Myanmar but also caused casualties in neighboring Thailand, where at least nine people perished, and 49 individuals remain missing after a skyscraper under construction collapsed in Bangkok. The U.S. Geological Service warned that the death toll in Myanmar could surpass 10,000 and indicated that financial losses could exceed the nation’s annual economic output.
The military junta has reported extensive damage to infrastructure including roads, bridges, and hospitals, leading to an appeal for international assistance. A rare statement from the top general highlighted the urgency of search and rescue operations in the hardest-hit areas such as Mandalay and Naypyitaw, where parts of a major hospital sustained damage.
International responses have begun to materialize as nations including China, Russia, India, Malaysia, and Singapore dispatched relief supplies and personnel. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar noted, “We will continue to monitor the developments and more aid will follow.” South Korea also pledged an initial $2 million to humanitarian efforts.
Residents in Mandalay are confronting the aftermath, with some engaging in rescue attempts amidst the rubble of collapsed buildings. One survivor, Htet Min Oo, expressed despair over potential losses, saying, “I don’t know if they are still alive under the debris. After so long, I don’t think there’s any hope.”
In Bangkok, emergency teams are mobilizing to locate construction workers trapped in the wreckage of a 33-storey tower. Efforts involve deploying excavators, drones, and rescue dogs, as officials pledged not to abandon the rescue mission. The Governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt, emphasized his determination to utilize all available resources to save lives amid a deteriorating situation.
In summary, the recent earthquake in Myanmar has resulted in a significant loss of life and extensive infrastructural damage, escalating an already dire humanitarian situation. International aid efforts are in progress, with multiple countries extending support to both Myanmar and Thailand. As search and rescue operations unfold, the hope for survivors remains fragile amidst growing despair.
Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke
