A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar
on Friday, leaving behind widespread devastation. The tremors have claimed over
1,000 lives, injured more than 2,000, and displaced thousands of
families. Rescue efforts are still underway, with the toll expected to rise as
authorities continue to pull victims from the rubble.
The earthquake's epicenter was near Mandalay,
Myanmar’s second-largest city, which has been badly affected, with
buildings crumbling, roads splitting, and emergency services stretched beyond
capacity. Hospitals in Mandalay, Naypyidaw, and Sagaing are overwhelmed,
and there is a severe shortage of blood supplies for the injured.
Myanmar's Plea for International Help
Myanmar’s military junta leader, General Min Aung Hlaing,
made an unusual move by inviting international aid, stating that "any
country" willing to help is welcome. This is a rare stance for
Myanmar’s government, which has often been reluctant to accept foreign
assistance in times of crisis.
The United Nations (UN) has allocated $5 million for
immediate relief efforts. Meanwhile, India is sending over 15 tonnes of
emergency supplies, including food, medicine, sleeping bags, and hygiene
kits. The supplies will be flown in via an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft.
The United States has also pledged assistance, with
former President Donald Trump stating that Washington will offer help to
Myanmar’s rescue efforts.
Chaos and Destruction in Myanmar
The earthquake, followed by a strong 6.4-magnitude
aftershock just 11 minutes later, has flattened homes, religious sites,
and schools. One of the most tragic incidents occurred in Mandalay,
where rescue teams are working tirelessly to free monks trapped under the
rubble of Phaya Taung Monastery.
State media and humanitarian organizations report mass
graves being dug to bury the rising number of victims. Survivors are taking
shelter in makeshift camps, while thousands remain without clean water,
food, or electricity.
Myanmar, which lies on an active earthquake zone, has
seen tremors before, but this disaster has been particularly catastrophic due
to its impact on urban areas.
Neighboring Countries Affected
The impact of the earthquake was felt beyond Myanmar’s
borders. In Thailand, a 33-story building under construction in
Bangkok collapsed, killing at least six people and injuring several
others. The Thai government has warned of possible aftershocks and urged
citizens to remain alert.
In China, the tremors shook parts of Yunnan and
Sichuan provinces, damaging infrastructure in Ruili and Mangshi. Reports
indicate that the quake was so strong in Mangshi that people struggled to
stand upright.
Global Reactions and Calls for Help
The international community has responded swiftly. Pope
Francis, who is currently recovering from health issues, offered prayers
for the victims in Myanmar and Thailand. Amnesty International
highlighted that this disaster comes at a time when Myanmar is already
struggling with internal conflict and displacement issues, making relief
efforts even more urgent.
In Thailand, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra
has instructed emergency agencies to stay on high alert, fearing further
aftershocks and structural collapses.
Uncertain Future and Ongoing Rescue Operations
Despite international assistance, the road to recovery will
be long for Myanmar. Emergency teams are racing against time to rescue those
trapped under debris, while humanitarian organizations warn that food,
medical supplies, and clean water are running out fast.
With aftershocks still rattling the region, and thousands
left homeless, Myanmar is facing one of its worst natural disasters in
years. The world is watching, and now, more than ever, global solidarity and
urgent relief efforts will determine how quickly Myanmar can rebuild after
this catastrophe.