Myanmar-Thailand Earthquake Crisis: India Steps In With Urgent Relief Assistance
- India International Affairs South Asia
Shreya Naskar- 0
- 5 minutes read
In the wake of a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand, India has extended a humanitarian hand by sending over 15 tonnes of essential relief materials to the affected regions. The disaster has claimed the lives of at least 694 individuals, while over 1,600 have been injured. Joe Freeman, a researcher from Amnesty International, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the earthquake “could not have come at a worse time” for Myanmar, given its ongoing internal conflicts and economic struggles. The authorities fear that the death toll may rise as the region has experienced 14 aftershocks since the initial quake, making this the strongest seismic event to hit Myanmar in over a century. The relief package sent by India includes critical emergency supplies such as Sleeping bags, Blankets, Ready-to-eat meals, Water purifiers, Hygiene kits, Solar lamps, Generator sets, Medicines including paracetamol, antibiotics, syringes, gloves, bandages. The Indian government, through its embassy in Myanmar, is closely monitoring the situation. Indian officials have confirmed that, so far, no Indian nationals have been reported among the casualties.
The powerful earthquake, with an epicentre located 16 kilometres north-northwest of the town of Sagaing in Myanmar, has left a trail of destruction. Several buildings collapsed, roads cracked, and vital infrastructure suffered significant damage. The seismic tremors were so intense that they were felt in Bangkok, Thailand, causing widespread panic. Reports indicate that hundreds of people ran out onto the streets, swimming pools overflowed, and
buildings swayed due to the impact. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), Myanmar has experienced at least 14 aftershocks since the initial quake. These tremors ranged in magnitude from 3.0 to 5.0, with the strongest aftershock measuring 6.7, occurring just 10 minutes after the primary earthquake. Seismologists have cautioned that more aftershocks may follow, prolonging the uncertainty and distress in the affected regions. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has been actively assessing and preparing for emergency humanitarian support. In a statement released on social media, UNICEF expressed deep concern for the well-being of children and families affected by the disaster. The agency is collaborating with local organizations to provide urgent relief. However, humanitarian groups operating in Myanmar face significant challenges in delivering aid due to logistical and political constraints. Myanmar’s ruling military junta has been urged to allow unrestricted access to humanitarian aid to reach those in need. Joe Freeman, a researcher from Amnesty International, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the earthquake “could not have come at a worse time” for Myanmar, given its ongoing internal conflicts and economic struggles.
While the immediate response has been swift, aid agencies are encountering several hurdles:
- Damaged Infrastructure: The destruction of roads and bridges has made it difficult for rescue teams to access the worst-hit areas.
- Political Barriers: Myanmar’s political instability and military governance have restricted the free movement of aid workers and relief supplies.
- Medical Emergencies: Hospitals are overwhelmed with injured victims, and there is a dire need for medical assistance, trauma care, and essential drugs.
- Displacement Crisis: Thousands have been rendered homeless and are in urgent need of shelter and sanitation facilities.
India has a long-standing tradition of extending disaster relief assistance to its neighbouring countries. Over the years, India has actively participated in global humanitarian efforts, including providing aid to Nepal during the 2015 earthquake and assisting Sri Lanka during natural calamities. The current relief effort reinforces India’s commitment to being a responsible regional partner, offering timely support in times of crisis. The rapid deployment of aid to Myanmar and Thailand also highlights India’s growing capabilities in disaster management and humanitarian response. The recent earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand has once again highlighted the unpredictability and destructive power of natural disasters. India’s swift humanitarian response is a testament to its commitment to regional solidarity and disaster relief. As relief efforts continue, the global community must come together to support the affected populations and build a more resilient disaster preparedness framework for the future.
