A devastating earthquake has struck central Myanmar, leaving over 1,600 people dead and thousands more trapped under rubble. Rescue efforts are underway, but aid workers face significant challenges in reaching affected areas due to the country’s fragile state of civil war and armed conflict.
The quake, which occurred on Friday near Mandalay, a city with a population of nearly 700,000, has destroyed numerous buildings, including apartments, monasteries, and mosques. Volunteer emergency responders are working tirelessly to search for survivors, but the situation remains dire.
Preliminary modeling suggests that the death toll could rise significantly, potentially exceeding 10,000. The Myanmar military junta, which seized power in 2021, has restricted access to information, making it difficult to assess the full extent of the disaster.
International aid is pouring in, with countries including India, China, South Korea, and Malaysia sending assistance to support relief efforts. However, access to affected areas remains a major hurdle due to damaged roads and infrastructure.
Survivors are struggling to cope with the aftermath, with many left without medical care or communication with loved ones. The international community is watching anxiously as Myanmar’s fragile situation continues to deteriorate.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/29/world/asia/myanmar-earthquake.html