Catholic leaders in Myanmar call for global aid as earthquake death toll rises

CV NEWS FEED // Nearly 3,000 lives have been lost following a powerful earthquake in central Myanmar, prompting a plea from the country’s Catholic community for swift humanitarian aid. 

The 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which struck the Mandalay-Sagaing region on March 28, has left thousands of survivors without shelter, medical care, or basic supplies, UCA News reported April 1. 

Karuna Myanmar, the local branch of Catholic charity Caritas, said many people are currently without access to emergency medicine, with injuries widespread and many still unaccounted for. 

“Many are injured, and thousands are homeless on the streets,” the organization reported.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Myanmar has called for a ceasefire in the ongoing civil war to allow aid to reach those in need. 

“We urgently call for an immediate and complete ceasefire by all parties involved in the conflict to ensure the safe and unhindered delivery of essential humanitarian aid from local and international donors,” the bishops said in a March 29 statement.

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Catholic volunteers in the Mandalay Diocese have begun coordinating efforts with local authorities, other religious groups, and charitable organizations. Karuna has activated its network of diocesan offices to assess needs and deliver aid where possible, though travel restrictions and damaged infrastructure are limiting access to some affected areas.

“Under the current conditions, it is difficult to provide an accurate picture with data and figures due to the lack of telecommunications and restricted access to various areas,” said Karuna’s Mandalay office.

The earthquake caused extensive damage to schools, hospitals, religious sites, homes, and public infrastructure, including bridges and airports. In response, the military junta administration declared a state of emergency and a week of national mourning.

In a rare move, the government also issued a public request for international assistance. According to UCA News, in past humanitarian emergencies, the junta has not only turned away international assistance but also blocked access for aid workers and withheld relief efforts altogether.

Government spokesman Zaw Min Tun said, “We want the international community to give humanitarian aid as soon as possible.”