Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 700; India Sends Humanitarian Aid Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar, rescue teams are working around the clock to locate survivors in Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city and the quake’s epicenter. According to a Myanmar military leader, the disaster has claimed at least 700 lives, with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) warning that the death toll could potentially surpass 10,000.
The tremors were felt across neighboring countries, including parts of India like Meghalaya and Manipur, as well as Bangladesh, particularly in Dhaka and Chattogram. Even regions as far as Bangkok, approximately 900 kilometers away, reported significant structural damage, leading to the collapse of multiple landmarks and bridges.
Latest Developments:
India’s Humanitarian Response: After Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed India’s willingness to assist, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that India has dispatched 15 tonnes of relief supplies to Myanmar. The aid, transported via an IAF C-130J aircraft, includes solar lamps, food packets, and kitchen sets.
🇮🇳 dispatches first tranche of urgent humanitarian aid for the people of Myanmar. @IAF_MCC C-130 is carrying blankets, tarpaulin, hygiene kits, sleeping bags, solar lamps, food packets and kitchen set. A search & rescue team and medical team is also accompanying this flight.… https://t.co/ONzOsHFSp2 pic.twitter.com/0p3OtTIlj5
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 29, 2025
Bangkok Declares Emergency: Thailand has declared a state of emergency in its capital after the earthquake triggered the collapse of an unfinished skyscraper, killing at least 10 people and leaving 100 construction workers missing.
US Pledges Aid Despite Budget Cuts: Despite recent announcements of cuts to USAID by former President Donald Trump, the US government has committed to sending aid to Myanmar. USAID, historically significant in disaster relief operations, will be mobilized to assist victims.
USGS Warning: The USGS issued a grave warning on Friday, predicting “high casualties and extensive damage,” with estimates suggesting the death toll could climb beyond 10,000.
Myanmar’s Humanitarian Appeal: Amid the destruction, Myanmar’s junta chief Min Aung Hlaing made a rare global appeal, urging international assistance. “I would like to invite any country, any organization, or anyone in Myanmar to come and help. Thank you,” he said, emphasizing the country’s urgent need for aid.
In response, China and Russia have already dispatched aid and rescue personnel to Myanmar, joining global efforts to mitigate the aftermath of the devastating earthquake.