A catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on 28 March 2024, claiming the lives of over 2,700 individuals and leaving thousands more injured and missing. As aid groups rush to deliver much-needed supplies, the ongoing civil war complicates relief efforts, placing many affected at further risk.
Humanitarian Crisis in Myanmar
The latest reports indicate that the death toll is expected to surpass 3,000, with a staggering number of injuries reported at 4,521 and 441 individuals still unaccounted for. The earthquake, the most powerful to shake Myanmar in a century, has devastated communities, toppling not only ancient pagodas but also modern buildings.
Immediate Needs Identified
- Shelter
- Food and clean water
- Medical assistance
Aid workers from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) have highlighted the urgent requirement for essential supplies. Many survivors, fearing aftershocks, are now sleeping outdoors, while those still in their homes remain too terrified to sleep inside.
“In the hardest-hit areas, communities struggle to meet their basic needs,” an IRC worker in Mandalay remarked, illustrating the desperate situation on the ground. The military junta’s control over communication and road infrastructure has only intensified these challenges, making it difficult for aid to reach those in need.
Challenges in Relief Efforts
The ongoing civil war, ignited by the military coup in 2021, hampers humanitarian access. Groups opposing the junta have reported airstrikes in areas where they operate, complicating the delivery of aid. Advocacy organisations like Amnesty International have urged the junta to allow unrestricted access for humanitarian organisations across all regions.
Rescue Operations in Thailand
Meanwhile, neighbouring Thailand is dealing with the fallout from the same earthquake, as rescuers continue to search for survivors beneath the rubble of an unfinished skyscraper that collapsed in Bangkok. With time running out, the search efforts have become more desperate, with officials confirming 13 deaths and 74 individuals still missing at the site.
Volunteer rescue leader Bin Bunluerit stated, “There are about 70 bodies underneath … and we hope by some miracle one or two are still alive.” The gravity of the situation resonates deeply with relatives waiting for news, as they cling to hope amid uncertainties.
Investigation Underway
Thai authorities are investigating the cause of the building’s collapse, with reports indicating substandard materials may have contributed to the disaster. Local officials have called for a thorough review to prevent future tragedies.
The efforts of the rescue teams — both local and international — continue as they navigate the debris, underscoring the human spirit’s resilience in the face of devastating circumstances. In times like these, the convergence of disaster and conflict calls for collective action and support from the international community.