Burma earthquake deaths exceed 2,700 as more survivors pulled from rubble

A devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Burma on Friday, causing widespread destruction and claiming the lives of more than 2,700 people. The earthquake, which also affected neighboring Thailand, has compounded an already dire humanitarian crisis in Burma, where a civil war has been raging.

The death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue in the aftermath of the earthquake. Many areas in Burma have been left without power, telephone, or cell connections, making it difficult to assess the full extent of the devastation. The World Health Organization has reported that over 10,000 buildings have collapsed or been severely damaged in Burma, further exacerbating the crisis.

Rescue workers have been working tirelessly to search for survivors in the rubble of collapsed buildings. In one miraculous rescue, a 63-year-old woman was pulled from the wreckage in Burma’s capital after being buried for 91 hours. However, the window for finding survivors is closing rapidly, as experts say the likelihood of finding people alive decreases significantly after 72 hours.

The military government of Burma has reported the current death toll at 2,719, with thousands more injured or missing. The earthquake has struck at a time when Burma was already facing immense challenges due to the ongoing civil war. The situation is further complicated by the lack of access to basic necessities such as clean water, food, and medical supplies.

International aid organizations and rescue teams from several countries have been mobilized to assist in the relief efforts. However, progress has been slow, with a lack of heavy machinery hindering rescue operations in many areas. The onset of the monsoon season poses a further challenge, as many people are currently sleeping outside due to destroyed homes or fear of aftershocks.

The civil war in Burma has made the delivery of humanitarian aid even more difficult. The military government seized power in 2021, leading to armed resistance and widespread conflict. The shadow opposition National Unity Government has called for a ceasefire to facilitate aid delivery, urging the international community to ensure that assistance reaches those in need.

As the situation in Burma remains critical, it is essential that humanitarian aid is delivered promptly and efficiently to those affected by the earthquake. The focus must be on saving lives and providing support to vulnerable populations who are now facing even greater challenges in the aftermath of this natural disaster.