1,000 Dead, 2,000 Injured in Myanmar Earthquake; India, UN Send Aid

A powerful earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, causing massive destruction. At least 1,000 people have died, and more than 2,000 are injured. Officials expect the numbers to rise as rescue efforts continue. Meanwhile, in Thailand, a high-rise under construction collapsed in Bangkok, killing at least six people.

Myanmar Seeks Urgent International Help

Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has requested international aid to assist in relief efforts. In a televised speech, he confirmed that Myanmar has accepted support from India and the AHA Center, a regional disaster response agency.

Earthquake Details and Strong Aftershocks

The 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar around midday on Friday. Its epicenter was near Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city. Just 11 minutes later, a powerful 6.4-magnitude aftershock followed, making the situation worse.

Myanmar frequently experiences earthquakes, but they usually strike remote areas. This time, the tremors severely impacted major cities, leading to widespread damage and loss of life.

The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that the death toll could exceed 1,000, making it one of Myanmar’s worst disasters in recent years.

Hospitals Overwhelmed, Urgent Blood Shortage

Myanmar’s military leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, warned that the number of deaths and injuries will likely increase. He has invited all nations to send aid and donations.

Meanwhile, Major General Zaw Min Tun reported that hospitals in Naypyidaw, Mandalay, and Sagaing are struggling to handle the flood of patients. Medical teams need blood donations and emergency supplies. Doctors and nurses are working non-stop to treat the injured.

Building Collapse in Bangkok Kills Six

The earthquake’s impact extended to Thailand. In Bangkok, a 33-story building under construction collapsed near Chatuchak Market. Dust filled the air, and people ran for safety as the structure crumbled. Traffic came to a halt as rescue teams rushed in. Medics transported the injured on stretchers while emergency workers searched for survivors.

Countries Respond with Aid and Relief

The international community is stepping in to help:

• UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced that the United Nations has allocated $5 million to start relief efforts.

• U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States will send assistance, stating, “We’re going to be helping.”

• Myanmar’s government usually hesitates to accept foreign aid, but this time, Min Aung Hlaing assured that the country is open to receiving help.

• India will send over 15 tonnes of relief materials, including tents, sleeping bags, food, water purifiers, hygiene kits, and medicines. The Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft will deliver the aid from Air Force Station Hindon.

China Feels the Tremors

The earthquake also shook China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces. The city of Ruili suffered structural damage. In Mangshi, tremors were so strong that people struggled to stand.

Aftershocks Keep Shaking the Region

Strong aftershocks continue to rattle Myanmar. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) confirmed that a 4.2-magnitude tremor struck at 11:56 PM local time on Friday. It occurred 10 km underground, increasing the risk of more aftershocks.

Mandalay Faces Heavy Destruction

Mandalay, home to 1.5 million people, has suffered extensive damage. Rescue teams are working around the clock to free monks trapped under Phaya Taung Monastery’s rubble. Many families are searching for missing loved ones.

Humanitarian Groups Raise Concerns

Amnesty International warned that the earthquake hit at a critical time for Myanmar. The country already has many displaced people and ongoing humanitarian crises. Reduced U.S. aid under the Trump administration has made relief efforts even more difficult.

Meanwhile, Pope Francis, who is recovering from double pneumonia, offered his prayers for the victims. The Vatican stated, “The pope has been informed of the disaster in Myanmar and is praying for the dramatic situation and for the many victims, also in Thailand.”

Thailand on High Alert for More Aftershocks

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered emergency agencies to stay prepared. She warned that aftershocks could cause further damage. However, she has not confirmed any additional casualties.

Myanmar is facing one of its worst natural disasters in years. With thousands injured and hospitals overwhelmed, the need for international assistance is urgent. Rescue teams are still searching through rubble, hoping to save more lives. As aftershocks continue, the coming days will be crucial for relief and recovery efforts.