The search for survivors from last month’s catastrophic earthquake in Myanmar is gradually reaching its conclusion. As we transition from rescue operations to a focus on relief and recovery, the staggering death toll has now surpassed 3,500 and continues to rise.
In the capital city of Naypyitaw, residents are working diligently to clear away debris, salvaging materials from their damaged homes. Meanwhile, soldiers have been busy removing wreckage from some of the area’s Buddhist monasteries.
According to the Myanmar Fire Services Department, teams have successfully retrieved 10 bodies from the ruins of a collapsed building in Mandalay, the nation’s second-largest city. “Every life lost is a tragedy,” remarked a local official, highlighting the profound impact of the disaster.
The number of rescue teams operating in residential neighborhoods of Naypyitaw is steadily diminishing, reflecting the shift in focus following the 7.7-magnitude quake that wreaked havoc across six regions and states of Myanmar.
The tremor on March 28 left many communities without electricity or communication, and severely damaged infrastructure, complicating efforts to assess the full extent of the devastation. As rescue missions have come under the stress of heavy rains and wind over the weekend, countless individuals have found themselves homeless, forced to sleep outdoors. “We need immediate assistance to survive the elements,” a resident lamented.
Forecasts for the week indicate scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout the country, further challenging relief efforts.
In the midst of the recovery efforts, tensions remain high as Myanmar’s military government and its armed opponents have been exchanging accusations regarding violations of ceasefire agreements, ostensibly put in place to facilitate earthquake relief. Since the army’s takeover in 2021, which ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, the nation has struggled with unrest, transitioning from peaceful protests to a situation that resembles a civil war.
Despite unilateral truces declared by both sides to aid in relief efforts, reports of ongoing conflicts are widespread. Independent media and eyewitness accounts indicate that the military continues aerial bombardments in several regions. However, obtaining independent verification of these conflicts is increasingly difficult due to the remoteness of the affected areas and the restrictions on journalists.
As Myanmar grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy and the ongoing strife, the need for unity and support is more crucial than ever.
“In times of adversity, the strength of our community will define our recovery,” a local leader emphasized, reminding us all of the resilience and spirit of the people of Myanmar.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
