7.7 magnitude earthquake, heavy devastation and difficulties in rescue operations in Myanmar

The devastating earthquake of 7.7 magnitude in Myanmar has completely disturbed public life. Relief and rescue operations are also being disrupted in this country, which is already struggling with political instability. Relief material is not reaching the affected areas due to heavy damage to roads and infrastructure. At the same time, thousands of people are forced to stay out of their homes due to fear of earthquake shocks.

Earthquake effect and loss of life

• More than 1600 people killed and more than 3400 injured.

• Hundreds of houses destroyed, people forced to spend the night on the streets.

• Roads and bridges demolished, communication services stalled.

• Heavy shortage of essential medicines and blood.

UN agency report and request for help

United Nations UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that

• The rescue work is surrounded by difficulties, as help is not reaching the needy due to damage to roads and bridges.

• Communication system stalled, which is delaying relief efforts.

• It has become extremely difficult to deliver medicines and food to the earthquake victims.

• Myanmar’s army appealed for international help.

India’s rescue operation ‘Operation Brahma’

India has started ‘Operation Brahma’ to help Myanmar in this hour of crisis.

• Send 15 tonnes of relief materials and rescue teams.

• Emergency supply from air and sea routes continues.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with India’s military general Min Aung Having and confirmed India’s support.

• India became the first country to assist Myanmar after the earthquake.