Disaster in Myanmar: Earthquake Leaves Devastation and Chaos
Disaster Unfolds
A massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake. At least 1,600 people have been killed, and 3,400 injured, according to the military government. The US Geological Service’s predictive modeling estimates that the death toll could top 10,000 and losses could exceed the country’s annual economic output.
International Aid Efforts
Myanmar’s neighbors, including India, China, and Thailand, have sent warships and aircraft laden with relief materials and rescue personnel to assist in the disaster response. India’s foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, announced that two navy ships carrying supplies are heading to Yangon, while China’s embassy in Myanmar reported that multiple teams of Chinese rescue personnel have arrived, including one that crossed overland from the southwestern province of Yunnan. A 78-member team from Singapore, accompanied by rescue dogs, is also operating in Mandalay.
Chaos and Devastation
The earthquake has ravaged critical infrastructure, including an airport, highways, and bridges, slowing humanitarian operations. The fighting in the country has escalated since the 2021 military coup, which ousted the elected government of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi and sparked a nationwide armed uprising. The opposition National Unity Government has called for a two-week ceasefire to allow for rescue operations.
Residents Struggle to Survive
In some of the hardest hit areas, residents have reported receiving little to no aid, and there are no rescue workers in sight. The entire town of Sagaing, near the quake’s epicentre, has been devastated, with many buildings collapsed into the ground. "We have received no aid, and there are no rescue workers in sight," said resident Han Zin.
Field Hospital Established
A field hospital has been set up in Mandalay, with scores of people feared trapped under collapsed buildings. "People are still stuck in the buildings, they can’t take people out," said a resident. Hospitals in parts of central and northwestern Myanmar, including Mandalay and Sagaing, are struggling to cope with the influx of injured people.
Conclusion
The earthquake in Myanmar has left a trail of devastation and chaos, with international aid efforts underway to assist in the disaster response. The country’s military government and opposition groups have called for ceasefire and rescue operations, respectively. As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that the road to recovery will be long and arduous.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the death toll from the earthquake in Myanmar?
A: At least 1,600 people have been killed, and 3,400 injured, according to the military government.
Q: What is the estimated economic loss from the earthquake?
A: The US Geological Service’s predictive modeling estimates that the death toll could top 10,000 and losses could exceed the country’s annual economic output.
Q: What international aid has been sent to Myanmar?
A: India, China, and Thailand have sent warships and aircraft laden with relief materials and rescue personnel. A 78-member team from Singapore, accompanied by rescue dogs, is also operating in Mandalay.