The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday has claimed 1,644 lives, with thousands more injured and missing. In response to the crisis, Myanmar’s shadow government, the National Unity Government (NUG), has declared a partial ceasefire to facilitate rescue and aid efforts in affected areas.
Rising Death Toll and Widespread Destruction
The magnitude 7.7 earthquake caused widespread devastation, collapsing buildings, roads, and bridges. Initially, the death toll was reported at 1,002, but it has since climbed sharply, with 3,408 people injured and 139 still missing. The hardest-hit cities include Mandalay and Naypyitaw, where emergency teams are struggling to reach survivors.
Neighboring Thailand also suffered damage, with 10 confirmed fatalities. Nine people died in a collapsed high-rise near Bangkok’s Chatuchak market, while 78 remain missing. Rescue teams continue to search the rubble, but hope is fading for those still trapped.
Aid Efforts Hindered by Infrastructure Damage
Myanmar’s relief operations are facing severe challenges due to damage to key infrastructure. Satellite images show that Naypyitaw International Airport’s control tower was completely destroyed, complicating flight operations for incoming aid. Many roads remain impassable, further slowing rescue efforts.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has allocated $5 million in emergency aid. A convoy carrying critical supplies from China is expected to arrive soon, bringing much-needed shelter and medical equipment. However, aid workers warn that severe shortages of medical supplies, including trauma kits and essential medicines, are hampering relief efforts.
Civil War Complicates Rescue Missions
Myanmar’s ongoing civil war adds another layer of difficulty to relief operations. Since the military seized power in 2021, armed resistance groups have controlled large parts of the country, making access to affected regions challenging. The fighting has already displaced over 3 million people, with nearly 20 million in need of humanitarian assistance.
To ensure relief efforts proceed smoothly, the NUG’s armed wing, the People’s Defense Force, has announced a two-week pause on offensive operations in quake-affected areas. The group has also pledged to work with the UN and humanitarian organizations to set up temporary medical camps. However, they warn that they will defend themselves if attacked by military forces.
International Aid Arrives as Military Remains Silent
Despite Myanmar’s history of restricting foreign aid, the military government has accepted assistance from allies. China has sent over 135 rescue personnel and $13.8 million in aid, while Russia has dispatched 120 emergency responders. Other countries, including India, South Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore, are also providing support.
The opposition NUG has offered to deploy its healthcare professionals to military-controlled areas, provided they receive safety guarantees. However, the military has yet to respond to this proposal. Reports indicate that military forces continued airstrikes in Kayin and Shan states even after the earthquake, raising concerns about whether aid will reach those in need.
With rescue teams still battling against time and challenging conditions, Myanmar faces a dual crisis—natural disaster and ongoing conflict—that threatens the lives of millions.
