Rescue teams in Myanmar are racing against time to save lives after a devastating earthquake hit the country. The 7.7 magnitude quake, which struck on Friday, has left at least 1,700 people dead and hundreds more missing.
In the northern Sagaing region, rescuers managed to pull four people alive from the rubble of a collapsed school building after an astonishing 60 hours. One body was also recovered from the same site.
The rescue efforts are ongoing, with international aid starting to arrive. Teams from China, Hong Kong, India, and other countries are joining the search for survivors. The UK has pledged £10 million (around 450 million Thai baht) to help those affected.
Despite the disaster, Myanmar’s military has continued its airstrikes in areas affected by the civil war, prompting the United Nations to condemn the actions as “inhumane and unacceptable”.
Experts warn that the situation in Myanmar could worsen with the approaching monsoon season, which starts in April and peaks in May. Last year, the country suffered severe flooding that damaged homes and sanitation systems. Lauren Eller, from the International Rescue Committee, told the BBC that the flooding could exacerbate the current crisis.
International Response
Countries around the world are sending aid to Myanmar:
- China: 82 rescuers
- Hong Kong: 51 rescuers
- India: rescue team and emergency equipment
- Malaysia: 50 rescuers
- Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Ireland, South Korea, Russia, New Zealand, and the US: rescue teams
Challenges Ahead
The rescue efforts are facing significant challenges, including difficult access to affected areas and the risk of aftershocks. The United Nations and other organizations are working to provide aid and support to those affected by the earthquake.
