Myanmar hospitals overwhelmed as military government says more than 2,000 killed in quake

 A massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake's epicenter was located 16 km (10 miles) northwest of Sagaing, a city near Mandalay. The tremors were felt as far away as southwest China and Thailand.

Myanmar’s military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, confirmed that at least 144 people have died and 732 have been injured. Authorities fear that the toll will continue to rise in the coming days. A second tremor, registering a magnitude of 6.4, followed just 12 minutes later, further compounding the disaster.

Widespread Damage and Struggles in Myanmar

Rescue efforts are underway in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, where the damage has been described as “enormous.” Emergency responders in affected villages have reported severe challenges, including a lack of heavy machinery to clear debris. "We’re digging people out with our bare hands," one rescuer told the BBC.

The quake has exacerbated Myanmar’s already dire humanitarian situation, with an estimated 3.5 million people displaced by ongoing internal conflict. Roads have buckled in the capital, Nay Pyi Taw, and a state of emergency has been declared in six regions.

The country’s military junta has made a rare appeal for international assistance. However, delivering aid remains complicated due to Myanmar’s fragmented political landscape. Rights groups have raised concerns about the potential politicization of relief efforts, as the junta has previously restricted aid to areas controlled by resistance forces.

Bangkok Building Collapse Leaves Scores Missing

The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar’s borders, triggering a major disaster in Thailand. Hundreds of miles away in Bangkok, a partially built high-rise collapsed, trapping around 100 construction workers beneath the rubble. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration confirmed at least seven fatalities at the site.

The tremors led to widespread evacuations across the Thai capital, including at hospitals treating critically ill patients. In the midst of the chaos, a woman gave birth on a stretcher, surrounded by medical staff.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited the site of the collapse as search-and-rescue teams, equipped with drones, sniffer dogs, and excavators, worked through the night.

Challenges Ahead for Relief Efforts

Myanmar’s earthquake has added pressure to an already fragile nation struggling with political turmoil and civil conflict. The Sagaing region, near the quake’s epicenter, has been a focal point in the country’s ongoing civil war, further complicating relief operations.

International organizations and opposition groups have voiced concerns about aid accessibility, fearing restrictions imposed by the military government. Montse Ferrer of Amnesty International highlighted the junta’s history of blocking humanitarian aid to rebel-held areas.

As search-and-rescue teams continue their operations in both Myanmar and Thailand, the full extent of the disaster remains unclear. With infrastructure severely damaged and political challenges hindering relief efforts, the road to recovery is expected to be long and arduous.

(Source: BBC)

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