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Aftermath of Powerful Earthquake in Myanmar: Rescue Efforts Continue
Rescue operations are ongoing in Myanmar following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the country on Friday, resulting in a tragic death toll of at least 1,700 individuals. Nearly 60 hours post-quake, rescuers have successfully pulled four additional individuals from the rubble of a collapsed school building located in the northern Sagaing region, while they have recovered one body, according to reports from Myanmar’s fire service.
In addition to those rescued, hundreds remain unaccounted for as search and rescue efforts stretch across Myanmar and into neighboring Thailand. In Bangkok, the impact of the earthquake led to the collapse of an unfinished high-rise building, claiming the lives of at least 18 people, with 76 workers still missing at the site.
The earthquake hit near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, along the tectonically active Sagaing fault line. Tremors were felt in several surrounding countries, emphasizing the seismic intensity of the quake. The rescue operations have faced challenges, particularly in the most affected areas, where delays hinder timely assistance, leading local residents to dig through debris in search of survivors.
On Saturday evening, an elderly woman was rescued in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar’s capital, after being trapped for 36 hours under rubble. Videos captured her being transported via stretcher to an ambulance, surrounded by emergency personnel. Additionally, on Sunday, rescuers reported saving 29 individuals from a collapsed apartment complex in Mandalay.
The earthquake occurred at 12:50 local time (06:20 GMT) on Friday, at a shallow depth of just 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), which amplified its ground effects. A second tremor, measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale, struck 12 minutes later, centered 18 kilometers (11 miles) south of Sagaing. Since then, aftershocks have persisted, including a magnitude-5.1 tremor recorded northwest of Mandalay on Sunday.
In Bangkok, where the geological conditions intensified the shaking, workers at a construction site faced disaster as the tower collapsed. Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul indicated that signs of life had been detected under the debris, though they appeared faint. There have been “anomalies” found in the steel used in the tower’s construction, and samples are currently being analyzed.
As families anxiously await news of their loved ones, international support is mobilizing to assist with disaster response efforts in Myanmar. Several countries have sent rescue teams, including:
- China: An 82-person rescue team
- Hong Kong: A team of 51 rescuers
- India: An aid flight with a rescue team and emergency supplies
- Malaysia: A 50-person team to assist in relief efforts
- Other countries including the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Ireland, South Korea, and New Zealand are also contributing resources.
In a show of solidarity, the UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has pledged £10 million in aid for those affected by the disaster.
However, amidst these rescue endeavors, the situation in Myanmar remains precarious, as the ruling military junta continues its bombardment of areas impacted by ongoing civil conflict. The United Nations condemned these actions as “outrageous and unacceptable.” Reports from pro-democracy rebel groups indicate that aerial strikes have occurred in the Sagaing region, complicating the disaster response.
The National Unity Government, representing the ousted civilian administration, announced a temporary halt to offensive military operations in regions affected by the earthquake, except for defensive actions, as it aims to support the humanitarian effort.
The looming monsoon season poses an additional challenge for residents in Myanmar, who may face further displacement. Lauren Ellery from the International Rescue Committee highlighted the potential risks, recalling last year’s severe flooding that caused significant damage to homes and sanitation facilities. With the monsoon beginning in May and rains expected as early as April, the urgency for sustained support and recovery is crucial.
Source
www.bbc.com