Myanmar quake survivors left without food, shelter as aftershocks fears linger

Relief organizations reaching the most affected regions of Myanmar reported an urgent requirement for food, water, and shelter following last week’s catastrophic earthquake, while in Bangkok, rescue teams continued their efforts to find survivors beneath the debris of a fallen skyscraper.

Over 2,000 individuals lost their lives in the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck around midday on Friday, and as relief teams reached areas close to the epicenter, it became evident that a significant humanitarian response was necessary for those who lived.

The IRC reported that its teams discovered individuals who also critically required medical assistance, potable water, and food.

The civil conflict in Myanmar, where the junta took control in a coup in 2021, has hindered attempts to assist individuals wounded and displaced by the largest earthquake in a century in the Southeast Asian country. In Mandalay, a local informed that residents were urgently attempting to coordinate their own initiatives to retrieve bodies from the debris due to insufficient equipment or rescue teams, while the community remained cautious about potential aftershocks.

According to state media, Myanmar’s death toll stands at 2,065, with over 3,900 people injured and at least 270 individuals unaccounted for. The military regime announced a week-long period of mourning starting on Monday.

The junta’s strict regulation of communication systems and the destruction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure resulting from the earthquakes have heightened the difficulties faced by aid workers.

In Bangkok, rescuers continued to search through the debris of an incomplete skyscraper that had fallen, hoping to find any signs of life, but knowing that with almost four days gone since the quake, the chances of finding survivors diminished.

Rescue teams announced their intention to introduce emotional support dogs for the families of the deceased and those who are missing. Thirteen fatalities have been reported at the construction site, with 74 individuals still unaccounted for.