On March 28, a catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, devastating Mandalay and other areas. The disaster has claimed over 1,000 lives, leaving survivors frantically sifting through rubble to rescue those trapped, often with bare hands due to the lack of machinery and government assistance.
Myanmar, already grappling with a political and humanitarian crisis since the military coup in 2021, faces an immense challenge in providing aid. The earthquake has compounded existing issues, including widespread displacement, a crippled healthcare system, and ongoing civil conflict.
The junta has made a rare international appeal for aid, with teams from Russia, China, Singapore, and India responding. However, concerns persist over equitable distribution, as authorities have been accused of blocking relief to opposition-controlled regions.
Humanitarian agencies warn that the disaster exacerbates Myanmar’s “polycrisis,” with its fragile infrastructure and deepening poverty making recovery efforts particularly daunting. Despite the obstacles, local residents and rescue workers continue their efforts, displaying remarkable resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.