Earthquake tragedy in Myanmar: over 3,000 dead and international help

Earthquake tragedy in Myanmar: over 3,000 dead and international help

Sagaing, Myanmar - A devastating earthquake shaken Myanmar and plunged the region into a humanitarian crisis. On Friday, April 3, 2025, the authorities reported over 3,000 confirmed fatalities. To date, a total of 3,085 people have been registered as dead, while the number of injuries has increased to 4,715. In addition, 341 people are still missing. The earthquake series, which reached a thickness of 7.7, occurred 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing. The earthquake was also noticeable in neighboring countries, including China, Cambodia, Bangladesh and India. The loss of numerous life in Thailand, where 22 deaths were recovered, collapsed as a 30-story high-rise in Bangkok. Over 70 people are considered missing there, which illustrates the comprehensive effects of the quake.

The humanitarian situation in Myanmar is critical. Rescue teams from 17 countries offered their help and provided 1,000 tons of relief goods. However, it is reported that the destruction of important infrastructure such as airports, bridges and streets significantly difficult. The military government has called for coordination for medical care, while the opposition groups have announced a partial weapon rest of two weeks to support the rescue campaigns. Despite these efforts, eyewitnesses have reported that state support is inadequate, which forces those affected to help themselves.

international help and support

Many countries have announced their support. India, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Russia provide humanitarian aid. Great Britain has provided £ 10 million for humanitarian accounting, while King Charles III. has expressed his sympathy for the people concerned. At the same time, the World Health Organization (WHO) has proclaimed the highest emergency level and needs $ 8 million for the urgently needed humanitarian aid.

The military government has asked for help internationally, and the return to normal in Thailand shows the urgency of the situation. Some subway lines are already in operation, even if everyday life is still far away for many.

crisis management in the region

As part of global support, the UNHCR also has the emergency in Myanmar in view. According to the UNHCR report, a total of 26 new emergency situations were recorded in 2024, which were caused by both new wars and climate-related disasters. The UNHCR was active in 43 emergency situations, including in Myanmar, and mobilized resources to quickly help the affected people. The report emphasizes the increase in requirements for humanitarian aid due to death, destruction and displacement. The support of international organizations is therefore indispensable to counter the growing emergency.

Since the destruction and loss of livelihoods spread further, the situation in this region remains extremely tense. With the ongoing international support, however, hope for improvement is fueled, even if the challenges are enormous. The people in Myanmar and the adjacent regions are particularly vulnerable during this time and will require increased humanitarian aid in the coming time.