BANGKOK (AP) — Following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, the death toll continues to rise as rescue efforts intensify. The military government reported on Saturday that 1,644 individuals have lost their lives, with thousands more sustaining injuries and dozens still unaccounted for. Additionally, Myanmar’s main resistance movement has declared a temporary ceasefire to facilitate relief operations. The earthquake struck on Friday, triggering multiple aftershocks, the strongest measuring 6.4. The impact of the quake was felt in the greater Bangkok area of Thailand, resulting in ten fatalities.
Several countries, including Malaysia, Russia, and China, have mobilized rescue teams and aid shipments to assist in the relief efforts.
Here are the latest updates:
– Resistance movement announces temporary ceasefire: Myanmar’s shadow National Unity Government has announced a two-week ceasefire in affected areas to support earthquake relief efforts. The People’s Defense Force, the armed branch of the movement, will halt offensive operations to collaborate with international organizations for relief operations.
– UN outlines relief plans: The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is coordinating with various groups to provide immediate relief. A $5 million fund has been allocated for life-saving assistance, including critical medical and shelter supplies expected to arrive from China on Sunday.
– Death toll rises in Myanmar: The official death toll in Myanmar has climbed to 1,644, with thousands more injured and many still missing. The military government has updated these figures following the earthquake.
– Russian aid mission dispatched: Russia has sent a medical team and rescue workers equipped with specialized equipment to provide support to earthquake victims in Myanmar. The team includes experts in infectious diseases, trauma care, and search and rescue operations.
– Hong Kong sends rescue team: Hong Kong has dispatched a rescue team to assist in the earthquake relief efforts in Myanmar.
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A group of 51 search-and-rescue personnel, including firefighters, ambulance personnel, and two search-and-rescue dogs, has been sent by Hong Kong to assist with earthquake relief efforts in Myanmar. This team is equipped with nine tons (18,000 pounds) of equipment, such as life detectors and masonry cutting machines, along with an automatic satellite tracking antenna system for network connection. The collapse of the control tower at Naypyitaw International Airport in Myanmar was observed in satellite photos, indicating the impact of the earthquake on critical infrastructure.
China has pledged 100 million yuan ($13.8 million) in emergency humanitarian aid for Myanmar, and has dispatched multiple rescue teams to the affected areas. In addition to search-and-rescue efforts, China has sent tents and blankets to provide immediate relief to those impacted by the earthquake. Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed condolences to Myanmar’s leader.
New Zealand and South Korea have also announced support for relief efforts in Myanmar. New Zealand plans to assist through the International Red Cross Movement, while South Korea is providing $2 million worth of humanitarian aid through international organizations. Both countries have expressed solidarity with those affected by the earthquake and stand ready to offer further assistance as needed.
