The death toll from the recent earthquake in Myanmar has climbed to 3,145, as recovery teams discover more casualties, according to the military-led government. Humanitarian organizations are working tirelessly to provide medical assistance and shelter to survivors.
Information Minister Maung Maung Ohn revealed in a meeting in Naypyitaw, the capital, that 4,589 individuals were injured and 221 were reported missing, as stated by state television MRTV. The earthquake, measuring 7.7 magnitude, struck near Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city, on March 28. The quake caused extensive destruction, collapsing numerous buildings, roads, and bridges across various regions.
Local reports suggest that the actual number of casualties may exceed official figures, given the widespread telecommunication disruptions and challenging access to affected areas. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimated that more than 17 million people in 57 townships, including over 9 million severely impacted individuals, have been affected by the earthquake and its aftershocks.
Urgent medical attention is required as the World Health Organization reports that several healthcare facilities have been destroyed or damaged, impeding access to critical care in the worst-hit areas. International rescue efforts are underway, with over 1,550 rescuers from various countries collaborating with local responders.
The earthquake has exacerbated the existing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, where millions were already displaced and in need of assistance. The military leadership announced a temporary ceasefire to facilitate aid operations, though reports of ongoing military activity in certain regions have surfaced.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this disaster, the days ahead will be crucial in evaluating the extent of the damage and coordinating an effective response to support those affected by the tragedy.
During the earthquake, the military was engaged in a conflict with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) militia group. The KIA announced a ceasefire on Wednesday but maintained the right to self-defense. The circumstances leading to the reported fighting were unclear. The earthquake affected Kachin, although no damage has been reported in the area. In Bangkok, a skyscraper under construction collapsed due to the quake, prompting a search for survivors and victims. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt mentioned the possible detection of signs of life in the rubble, but by the end of the day, no one was found. The incident resulted in the death of twenty-two individuals and left 35 others injured, mainly due to the collapse of the unfinished building. Contribution to this report was made by Jintamas Saksornchai.
