India has dispatched 15 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Myanmar after a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake, followed by a 6.8 magnitude aftershock, struck the country on Friday afternoon. The natural disaster has caused massive destruction and claimed over 150 lives.
The relief material is being transported via an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J aircraft from Hindon Air Force Station. The consignment includes essential supplies such as tents, sleeping bags, blankets, ready-to-eat meals, water purifiers, hygiene kits, solar lamps, generator sets, and medical necessities, including Paracetamol, antibiotics, canula, syringes, gloves, cotton bandages, and urine bags.
India’s Humanitarian Effort
Confirming the dispatch of aid, Indian authorities emphasized their commitment to supporting Myanmar during this crisis. “India dispatches the first tranche of urgent humanitarian aid for the people of Myanmar,” officials stated.
Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his condolences and offered India’s assistance to Myanmar and neighboring Thailand, which was also affected by the quake.
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PM Modi’s Response
Expressing concern over the disaster, PM Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote:
“Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand.”
Earthquake Devastates Myanmar and Thailand
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located 16 km northwest of the city of Sagaing at a depth of 10 km. The tremors caused severe damage, flattening buildings, breaking bridges, and cracking roads across Myanmar.
Myanmar’s Junta Chief Min Aung Hlaing confirmed that 144 people had been killed and 732 injured, cautioning that the toll was “likely to rise.”
“I would like to invite any country, any organization, or anyone in Myanmar to come and help. Thank you,” he said in a televised address after visiting a hospital in Naypyidaw.
Emergency Declared in Myanmar and Thailand
Myanmar has declared a state of emergency across the six worst-affected regions. The capital city, Naypyidaw, saw hundreds of casualties arriving at hospitals, with the emergency department entrance of a major hospital collapsing on a car.
Thailand also faced destruction, with a 30-storey skyscraper under construction in Bangkok collapsing in seconds due to the tremors. Thailand’s Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, said, “We see several dead bodies under the rubble. We will take time to bring the bodies out to avoid any further collapses.”
So far, eight deaths have been confirmed in Thailand. However, with nearly 90-100 people unaccounted for, officials anticipate the death toll may rise further.
International Aid and Relief Efforts Underway
Following the widespread destruction, Myanmar has called for urgent international assistance. “We have opened all ways for foreign aid,” Min Aung Hlaing stated, urging countries and organizations to step forward with relief efforts.
India’s swift response in delivering crucial relief material underscores its commitment to aiding neighboring countries in times of crisis. As Myanmar grapples with the aftermath of the devastating earthquake, global humanitarian efforts are expected to intensify in the coming days.
