India Dispatches 15 Tonnes of Relief to Earthquake-Affected Myanmar

After a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, killing over 150, India is sending 15 tonnes of relief materials, including essential supplies via IAF aircraft. PM Modi extended assistance and urged preparedness. The quake’s toll may rise, with a state of emergency declared in Myanmar and casualties reported in Thailand.

India is providing humanitarian aid to Myanmar following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake and a subsequent 6.8 magnitude aftershock, which resulted in over 150 fatalities. Approximately 15 tonnes of essential relief materials are being dispatched via an Indian Air Force C-130 J transport aircraft from Hindon Air Force Station.

The relief supplies include tents, sleeping bags, blankets, ready-to-eat meals, water purification systems, hygiene kits, solar lamps, generator sets, and critical medicines such as paracetamol, antibiotics, canulas, syringes, gloves, cotton bandages, and urine bags. These items aim to address the urgent needs of those affected by the disaster.

In response to the situation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and reiterated India’s commitment to providing assistance. He instructed officials to remain prepared to engage with the governments of Myanmar and Thailand for effective coordination of aid services. Tremors from the quake were felt in several Indian cities, including Kolkata and Imphal.

The earthquake’s epicenter was located 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar at a depth of 10 kilometers. The physical impact resulted in extensive infrastructure damage, with numerous buildings, bridges, and roads severely affected. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing reported 144 fatalities and 732 injuries, with expectations that these numbers may escalate.

Prime Minister Hlaing also called for international support, stating in a televised address, “I would like to invite any country, any organization, or anyone in Myanmar to come and help. Thank you.” This highlights the urgency for foreign aid and collaboration in the recovery efforts.

In Thailand, where the earthquake was also felt, a 30-storey skyscraper under construction collapsed, leading to confirmed fatalities. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul mentioned that several bodies remain trapped under the debris and cautioned that initial death counts may rise dramatically.

Myanmar has declared a state of emergency across the six most affected regions, and hospitals in Naypyidaw are experiencing overwhelming numbers of casualties. Similarly, Bangkok has also suspended metro and light rail services in the wake of the earthquake’s destruction.

The recent earthquake in Myanmar has prompted an extensive humanitarian response from India, sending vital supplies to aid those affected. Prime Minister Modi’s express commitment and coordination with both Myanmar and Thailand exemplify regional solidarity in times of crisis. With further casualties likely and calls for international assistance ongoing, recovery efforts will require significant collaboration across borders.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com