The number of victims of the devastating earthquake that struck central Myanmar continues to rise, as warned by UN humanitarian staff this Sunday. The 7.7 magnitude quake, which occurred last Friday, has left around 1,700 dead and nearly 3,400 injured, while hundreds of people remain missing. The situation is critical, as around 20 million inhabitants were already in need of humanitarian aid before the disaster.
Search and rescue efforts are focused on affected cities such as Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw, where international aid teams have started to arrive. However, these efforts are complicated by damages to airports and local infrastructure. In Bangkok, the Thai capital also affected by the earthquake, 76 construction workers are reported missing after a building under construction collapsed, while the death toll in Thailand rises to 17.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has emphasized the importance of providing shelter, medical care, water, and sanitation to the victims, warning that the catastrophe has increased pressure on an already vulnerable population. Additionally, the political instability in Myanmar further complicates the humanitarian situation, as civilians are caught between the military junta and various armed militias fighting for control of the country following the coup d’état in February 2021.
The National Unity Government, representing the deposed civilian administration, has called on rebel fighters to respect a two-week ceasefire to facilitate the arrival of humanitarian aid. However, there have been reports of bombings by the military regime in areas near the earthquake epicenter.
Tom Andrews, independent expert of the Human Rights Council, has urged the junta to declare an immediate ceasefire, stating that humanitarian workers must be able to operate without fear of reprisals. The situation is particularly concerning for women and girls, who face greater risks amid this crisis.
The World Health Organization has responded by sending nearly three tons of medical supplies to the most affected areas. Meanwhile, the World Food Program has started distributing emergency food, including energy biscuits, and has announced plans to expand its aid.
The situation in Myanmar is critical and requires immediate attention. Efforts by international organizations and the call for humanitarian cooperation and a ceasefire are urgent to alleviate the suffering of the affected population.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
