International Aid Arrives as Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll…

A massive earthquake in Myanmar has resulted in over 1,000 deaths, with foreign rescue teams now arriving to assist. The disaster severely impacted infrastructure amid ongoing civil unrest, prompting international aid from several countries. Rescue operations are being conducted under challenging conditions as the nation faces the aftermath of this catastrophe.

On Saturday, foreign rescue teams commenced their efforts in Myanmar following a devastating earthquake that has resulted in over 1,000 fatalities, as reported by the military government. The toll rose significantly from earlier figures, indicating the severity of the disaster amidst an ongoing civil war which has severely impacted the nation’s infrastructure.

In addition to the casualties in Myanmar, neighboring Thailand experienced at least nine deaths due to the 7.7 magnitude earthquake, which caused damage including a collapsed skyscraper in Bangkok, leaving 30 individuals trapped and 49 missing. The U.S. Geological Service has cautioned that the death toll could surpass 10,000 as the quake could result in economic losses exceeding the country’s annual output.

The Myanmar military announced a rare plea for international assistance as rescue operations continue in affected regions. Notably, a Chinese rescue team arrived in Yangon, although heavily damaged areas such as Mandalay and Naypyitaw are further away. On Friday, a junta statement confirmed ongoing search and rescue efforts in hard-hit locations.

International aid is beginning to flow in, with contributions from several nations including Russia, India, Malaysia, and Singapore, sending relief supplies and personnel to support disaster response efforts. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar indicated, “We will continue to monitor the developments and more aid will follow.” South Korea has pledged an initial $2 million in aid through international organizations, while the United States has also offered some assistance despite its strained relations with Myanmar’s military leadership.

The earthquake’s widespread impact was felt from Mandalay to the hills of Shan, with extensive damage to essential infrastructure. In Mandalay, rescue workers struggled to assist victims under collapsed structures with limited resources. Eyewitness accounts capture the despair of those searching for trapped family members, indicative of the dire situation.

In Bangkok, a major rescue operation is underway for construction workers trapped beneath a collapsed building, with efforts being augmented by excavators, drones, and trained dogs. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt emphasized the determination to use all available resources to save lives. Many residents affected by the quake took refuge in parks as they awaited news of their loved ones.

In summary, the recent earthquake in Myanmar has led to devastating loss of life and extensive infrastructure damage, prompting an immediate international humanitarian response. The situation has been compounded by the ongoing civil unrest in the nation, complicating rescue efforts. As aid begins to arrive, both local and international teams are focused on search and rescue operations to assist those affected. The aftermath of this earthquake underscores the urgent need for assistance in a region already grappling with significant challenges.

Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke