Massive Earthquake Hits Myanmar: Over 2,700 Dead, Thousands Injured

Yangon:A devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck Myanmar, causing widespread destruction. According to authorities, at least 2,719 people have been confirmed dead and 4,521 injured, with fears that the death toll may exceed 3,000.

The earthquake struck on Friday afternoon and has been described as the worst natural disaster in a century. Both ancient pagodas and modern buildings have collapsed, leaving behind a scene of devastation.

There is a severe shortage of water, food, and medical supplies in the affected areas, and people, fearing aftershocks, have been forced to spend the night in the streets and open fields.

The United Nations reported that in Mandalay, a preschool building collapsed, killing 50 children and 2 teachers. Humanitarian organizations are working tirelessly to provide essential aid, but the ongoing civil war in the country is obstructing aid delivery.

Since the military coup in Myanmar in 2021, the country has been embroiled in a civil war, which has made it difficult for humanitarian aid to reach those in need. Amnesty International has called on the Myanmar military to ensure access to affected areas for humanitarian aid. In a troubling development, rebel groups have accused the military of continuing airstrikes in the aftermath of the earthquake.

The earthquake’s impact was also felt in neighboring Thailand, where a partially constructed skyscraper collapsed in Bangkok, resulting in 13 deaths and 74 people missing. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to search for 70 individuals trapped under the rubble, but after four days, hopes of finding survivors are diminishing. Investigations revealed that substandard steel was used in the construction of the building, and the government has launched an inquiry into the matter.