A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, March 29, 2025, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. As rescue operations continue, the death toll has climbed to 1,644, with 3,408 people injured and 139 still missing, according to official reports.
Myanmar’s National Unity Government Announces Ceasefire for Relief Efforts
The National Unity Government (NUG), which opposes Myanmar’s ruling military junta, declared a two-week ceasefire in earthquake-affected regions starting March 30, 2025. The move aims to facilitate relief efforts in collaboration with the United Nations (UN) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The NUG, composed of former lawmakers ousted in the 2021 military coup, vowed to assist in ensuring safe transportation, security, and the setup of medical and rescue camps.
Myanmar Earthquake: Key Updates
1. Rising Death Toll and Search for Missing Persons
- The earthquake has caused 1,644 deaths and left 3,408 injured, with 139 people still missing.
- Rescue operations are facing significant challenges due to damaged infrastructure and power outages.
2. Impact on Thailand
- Neighboring Thailand was also hit by the quake, with 10 confirmed fatalities and 78 people still missing.
- The worst-hit area was near Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market, where a high-rise building under construction collapsed.
3. International Humanitarian Aid
India’s ‘Operation Brahma’
- India launched Operation Brahma, deploying two C-17 aircraft carrying a 118-member Indian Army Field Hospital unit and 60 tonnes of relief material to Myanmar.
- A C-130 aircraft transported 38 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel and 10 more tonnes of aid.
- Two more C-17 aircraft with 60 Para Field Ambulances are set to arrive soon.
UK Pledges £10 Million in Aid
- The United Kingdom announced a £10 million ($12.9 million) aid package to support emergency relief efforts.
- Funds will be used for food, water, medical supplies, and shelter in the hardest-hit areas.
China’s $13.8 Million Assistance
- China dispatched an 82-member rescue team to Myanmar and pledged 100 million yuan ($13.8 million) in emergency aid.
- Aid shipments will begin on Monday, April 1.
Other International Support
- Hong Kong sent a 51-member team, along with two search-and-rescue dogs and nine tonnes of equipment.
- Malaysia, the Philippines, and South Korea have also extended humanitarian assistance.
- The European Union (EU) pledged €2.5 million ($2.7 million) in emergency aid.
- Ireland committed €6 million, split between the Red Cross and UN agencies.
- New Zealand allocated NZ$2 million ($1.1 million) for the International Red Cross.
4. Challenges in Rescue Operations
- Damaged roads and collapsed bridges have made it difficult for rescue teams to access affected areas.
- The Yangon-Nay Pyi Taw-Mandalay Expressway suffered cracks and distortions, leading to transportation disruptions.
- Hospitals in central and northwestern Myanmar are overwhelmed with injured victims.
5. Power and Communication Outages
- Many regions, including Mandalay, have reported electricity and communication failures.
- The historic Ava Bridge over the Irrawaddy River, built nearly 100 years ago, collapsed into the waters below.
- Power supply in Yangon is currently limited to four hours per day due to earthquake damage.
6. WHO Warns of Medical Shortages
- The World Health Organization (WHO) is mobilizing trauma injury supplies from its Dubai logistics hub.
- The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has flagged a severe shortage of essential medical supplies, including blood bags, anesthesia, assistive devices, and tents for health workers.
7. Survivors Rescued from Rubble
- A 30-year-old woman was pulled alive from the debris of a collapsed apartment in Mandalay.
- Rescuers fear that over 90 people may still be trapped under the remains of Sky Villa Condominium.
What’s Next?
With rescue operations still underway, the death toll is expected to rise as authorities continue searching for missing persons. The global response has been swift, with humanitarian aid pouring into Myanmar to address urgent needs such as food, water, medical aid, and shelter.
As the crisis unfolds, authorities, international organizations, and aid groups are working tirelessly to provide relief and rebuild affected areas.
