More than 1,600 people died and 3,408 were injured in Myanmar earthquake; India launches multi-agency relief missions | Updates | World News
The state government committee’s information team said on Saturday that the death toll from a strong earthquake in Myanmar has risen to 1,644, 3,408 injured and 139 missing.
A 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit the Mandalay region of Myanmar on Friday. Within a few minutes, a strong aftershock of magnitude 6.4 was then followed. The disaster caused serious damage and casualties in several countries.
The center of the epicenter is about 20 kilometers away from Mandalay, Myanmar’s second largest city, with 1.5 million people. The National Disaster Management Commission declared a state of emergency for Sagan, Mandalay, Glacier, Northeast Mountain State, Nay Pyi Taw and Bago.
Rescue work continues
Rescue operations are underway, with international assistance arriving to help those affected. Public hospitals at Sagaing, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw requested emergency blood donation when treating the injured. Many are still trapped under collapsed buildings.
New Delhi launched a multi-agency relief mission, Operation Brahma, to assist Myanmar, sending 15 tons of basic supplies while preparing additional aid for air and sea. As part of the effort, the rescue team was mobilized.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India’s commitment to humanitarian aid, speaking with Myanmar’s senior Min Aung Hlaing, highlighting India’s solidarity with the country.
Power failure, widespread destruction
The earthquake caused power failures and mobile network disruptions in Yangon, the largest city. Several major roads between Mandalay and Yangon were damaged or blocked. Airports in Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw are temporarily closed and all flights have been cancelled.
Photos and videos on social media have severe damage to buildings, temples and historic sites in Mandalay, including the Mandalay Palace and Mahamuni Pagoda.
The U.S. Geological Survey said it was the strongest earthquake of the year to date. Xinhua News Agency reported that Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and southwestern China all felt the tremor.
10 people died in Thailand
In Thailand, 10 people were killed, 42 injured and 78 others were missing in Bangkok, authorities said on Saturday. Thai Prime Minister Paetontarn Shinawatra declared a state of emergency in Bangkok. Northern provinces such as Chiang Mai also felt tremors. The tourist ruins in the Mae Hong Son Pai area have been damaged.
(with proxy input)
