NDRF Recovers Bodies Following Devastating Earthquake in Myanmar

Following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, the NDRF has retrieved nine bodies, including five from a collapsed monastery housing monks. With operations at 13 sites, India’s government has mobilized relief efforts, sending a specialized team and supplies, while a second group of rescuers awaits further instructions.

Rescuers from India’s National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have retrieved nine bodies from various sites in earthquake-affected Myanmar following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck on Friday, resulting in approximately 1,700 casualties. Among the recovered bodies, five were located at U Hla Thein monastery, where around 170 monks were reported to be trapped beneath the debris.

The NDRF teams are deployed across 13 sites in Mandalay, where many buildings have collapsed. A senior officer noted that the teams are divided for efficiency, working diligently in tandem with local residents and administrators. At the monastery, rescuers are utilizing heavy machinery to navigate the concrete wreckage, seeking any remaining survivors.

In response to the earthquake, India mobilized its armed forces on Saturday, dispatching an 80-member search and rescue team along with significant relief supplies, including four rescue dogs from the NDRF’s 8th battalion. This operation marks the third international deployment of the NDRF for earthquake rescue efforts, following missions to Nepal and Turkey in previous years.

A second contingent of 180 trained rescuers is on standby in Kolkata and New Delhi, ready to deploy upon further request from the government. According to Myanmar government spokesman Maj Gen Zaw Min Tun, the death toll currently stands at 1,700, with injuries affecting approximately 3,400 individuals and over 300 people still unaccounted for.

The NDRF’s prompt response in recovering nine bodies highlights the extent of destruction caused by the recent earthquake in Myanmar. With a significant number of casualties reported and many still missing, the coordinated efforts between NDRF teams and local authorities are crucial. The Indian government’s mobilization of rescue resources underlines its commitment to international disaster relief as it stands ready to assist further if necessary.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com