After a fierce earthquake of 7.7 magnitude in Myanmar, India has sent 15 tonnes of humanitarian aid under quick relief works. The C-130J aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) departed from Hindon Airbase on Saturday, which included tents, sleeping bags, blankets, finished food, water purifying equipment, hygiene kits, solar lamps, generator sets and necessary medicines.
Earthquake effect in Myanmar
The 7.7 magnitude earthquake on Friday and the 6.4 magnitude of the subsequent magnitude caused heavy havoc. So far more than 150 people have died in this disaster, while hundreds have been injured. The epicenter of the earthquake was in the Sagiing region, besides Myanmar also affected Thailand. A 30-storey building under construction in Bangkok killed 10 people.
Roads, bridges and buildings in Myanmar suffered heavy damage, causing relief and rescue operations. Local administration and international agencies are engaged in handling the situation.
India’s disaster aid policy and historical initiative
India has always been providing quick assistance during natural disasters under the “First Responance” policy. The assistance given to Myanmar is part of this policy. Even before this, India has helped significantly in many disasters:
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2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami: Relief and medical assistance sent to Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia.
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2015 Nepal Earthquake: India sent relief and rescue teams to Nepal under “Operation Friendship”.
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2023 Turkish-Syrian Earthquake: More than 6 tonnes of relief material and NDRF teams were sent under “Operation Friends”.
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Kovid-19 epidemic: Under the “Vaccine Friendship” initiative, India provided vaccine and medical supply to many countries.
Why is India’s help important to Myanmar?
According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, India is in constant touch with the Myanmar administration and is ready to provide additional assistance as per the need. Foreign Secretary Vikram Egypt said,
“India always helps its neighboring countries on priority basis in times of crisis. We are keeping an eye on the situation of Myanmar and considering further help.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences and said,
“I am saddened by the devastation caused by the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. India is ready to provide all possible help. Our condolences are with the victims and their families.”
Current status of areas affected by earthquake
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Emergency declared in Myanmar: The military government has implemented Emergency in six areas.
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Buildings and religious places demolished: Mahamuni Buddha Temple of Mandalay and a mosque of Naayapyido have been damaged.
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Relief work continues in Thailand: Many people are still feared to be stranded in the debris in Bangkok.
Hope raised with the help of India
The 15 tonnes of relief material sent by India is a new hope for the people of Myanmar, who are struggling with the crisis. It shows the strong relations between India and Myanmar as well as underlines India’s responsible and sensitive image on the global platform.
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