The death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand on March 28 is rising rapidly — more than 1,600 victims are now known. About this informs BBC. At the same time, the Associated Press informs, that their number is 1,644.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake was one of the most powerful in Southeast Asia in the last century. It has wreaked havoc amid Myanmar’s protracted civil war, which has virtually destroyed the country’s economy and forced millions of people from their homes.
The aftershocks damaged key infrastructure — destroyed airports, bridges, and highways. Due to the scale of the tragedy, the ruling military junta has allowed hundreds of foreign rescuers into the country for the first time in a long time.
However, the conditions for rescuing people remain extremely difficult. One of the local residents, who participates in clearing the rubble, told reporters that even if it is possible to find and remove the injured, medical assistance is often not available to them:
“There is no electricity or water. We are trying to save the lives of people who are trapped. But the hospitals cannot receive the injured.”
Of particular concern is the lack of fuel, which critically complicates the operation of pumps for water supply and transportation of the wounded.
According to local residents, in the past, young people were actively involved in similar situations, but after the introduction of the law on military service in February 2024, many young men fled the country or joined the armed resistance to the junta. This significantly reduced the number of volunteers able to help during rescue operations.
The search for people under the rubble continues in the affected regions. The authorities are calling on the international community for support, because the scale of the disaster is already beyond the capabilities of local services.
The media also reported that there is a high probability that the number of victims of the earthquake will continue to rise. The number of wounded increased to 3,408, and the number of missing – to 139.
Rescue work continues, especially in the most affected cities – Mandalay, Naypyitaw, the capital.
“However, despite the fact that teams and equipment have arrived from other countries, their work is hindered by the fact that the airports in these cities are damaged and, obviously, are not suitable for landing planes.” – the Associated Press notes.
