Rescuers Race Against Time as Death Toll Nears 1,000 in Myanmar Earthquake

Burma: Myanmar is grappling with the aftermath of a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck near its second-largest city, leaving at least 1,002 people dead and over 2,376 injured. As search and rescue operations intensify, officials fear the toll could rise further, with 30 individuals still missing beneath the rubble.

Widespread Impact Across the Region

The earthquake’s tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand—900 kilometers away—causing the collapse of several buildings and bridges. The disaster also affected parts of Bangladesh, including Dhaka and Chattogram, as well as northeastern India’s states of Meghalaya and Manipur.

India, China, and Russia Extend Aid

India has responded swiftly, with Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar confirming that a 15-ton relief package, including solar lights, food boxes, and cooking kits, was dispatched to Myanmar on an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft. This follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance that India stands ready to assist its neighbor.

China and Russia have also sent emergency response teams and relief supplies to assist in rescue and recovery efforts. Myanmar’s junta leader, Min Aung Hlaing, made a rare appeal for international help, stating, “Any nation, organization, or individual is welcome to assist Myanmar in this difficult time.”

State of Emergency in Bangkok

In Thailand, authorities have declared a state of emergency in Bangkok following severe structural damage. An unfinished high-rise building collapsed, leaving at least 100 construction workers missing and 10 confirmed dead.

USGS Warns of More Casualties

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has warned that the earthquake could lead to “high casualties and widespread destruction,” with estimates suggesting the death toll may climb to 10,000. President Donald Trump has pledged U.S. assistance, though recent cuts to USAID funding have raised concerns about the scale of American support.

Crisis Deepens in Myanmar

Already struggling with ongoing civil unrest, Myanmar is now facing severe shortages of electricity and water in the aftermath of the quake. Hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, while rescue workers continue their desperate search for survivors under collapsed buildings.

With international aid efforts underway, Myanmar now looks to global assistance in overcoming one of the deadliest disasters in its recent history. Rescue teams remain on high alert, hoping to find survivors in the crucial hours ahead.

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