Aid efforts intensify after deadly Myanmar-Thailand quake

Several countries have pledged humanitarian aid to Myanmar after a deadlyearthquake struck the Southeast Asian nation on Friday,killing more than 1,600 people and injuring another 3,400.

According to the US Geological Service, Myanmar's death toll could reach 10,000, and property losses could exceed the country's annual economic production.

Friday's earthquake is the deadliest disaster to hit the country in years and has damaged critical infrastructure, impeding the delivery of humanitarian support, the United Nations said.

Aid impacted by civil war in Myanmar

Myanmar has already been reeling with civil unrest that has escalated since a 2021 military coup.

The conflict has impacted Myanmar's largely agrarian economy, leaving essential services, such as health care, in shambles.

"All military and civilian hospitals, as well as health care workers, must work together in a coordinated and efficient manner to ensure effective medical response," said Myanmar's junta chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, according to state-run media.

The entire town of Sagaing, near the quake's epicenter, was devastated, said resident Han Zin, adding, "We have received no aid, and there are no rescue workers in sight."

The opposition National Unity Government (NUG), which includes the remaining personnel of the previous administration, said anti-junta militias under its command would pause all offensive military actions for two weeks from Sunday.

"The NUG, together with resistance forces, allied organizations and civil society groups, will carry out rescue operations," it said in a statement.

Myanmar counting on international aid

The catastrophe-hit country received warships and aircraft carrying relief materials and rescue personnel from its neighbors on Sunday.

India, China and Thailand are among the countries that have sent relief materials and teams of aid workers.

Malaysia, Singapore and Russia have also sent aid and teams to assist in the rescue and relief operations.

India is going to help set up a makeshift hospital in MandalayImage: Sai Aung Main/AFP

Indian aircraft ferried supplies and search-and-rescue crews to Naypyitaw.

The Indian army will also help set up a field hospital in Mandalay, and two naval ships with essential supplies have departed for  Myanmar's commercial capital of Yangon, said Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

China has also sent multiple ships with teams of rescue workers.

Singapore sent a 78-member team, accompanied by rescue dogs, Myanmar state media said.

The United Kingdom has also promised to provide up to £10 million ($12.9 million) in "life-saving aid" for Myanmar.

"The UK is sending immediate and life-saving support to the people of Myanmar following the devastating earthquake," Minister of State for Development Jennifer Chapman said.

Edited by Sean Sinico