Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Surpasses 1000 as Rescue Efforts Continue

Yangon – The death toll from the devastating earthquake in Myanmar has surpassed 1,000, with rescue efforts still underway across the country. According to the latest reports from Myanmar's state media, at least 1,002 people have died, while 2,376 others have been injured. Additionally, 30 people remain missing as search teams continue their operations in the hardest-hit areas.

Earlier on Saturday, the AFP news agency, citing Myanmar’s military junta government, had reported 694 confirmed deaths and 1,670 injuries. However, the numbers climbed significantly as emergency teams uncovered more victims beneath the rubble. Authorities fear the toll could rise even further as many regions remain inaccessible due to collapsed infrastructure and blocked roads.

The earthquake, which measured 7.7 on the Richter scale, struck central Myanmar on Friday, causing widespread destruction in cities and rural areas alike. Buildings, bridges, and roads have been severely damaged, with the worst impact reported near the epicenter, east of the city of Monywa. Among the casualties were people trapped in collapsed structures, including homes, offices, and religious sites.

In response to the growing crisis, Myanmar has officially appealed for international aid. Neighboring countries, including India, have stepped in to assist. On Saturday morning, a relief plane carrying 15 tons of emergency supplies departed from India, marking one of the first international aid efforts to reach the affected areas. Other countries and humanitarian organizations are also preparing to send aid as Myanmar struggles to cope with the scale of the disaster.

Rescue teams are racing against time to locate survivors, but efforts are being hampered by damaged infrastructure and ongoing aftershocks. Hospitals in affected regions have declared emergencies, with medical teams overwhelmed by the number of injured patients. Authorities have urged people to stay cautious as aftershocks continue to shake the region, increasing the risk of further structural collapses.

The Myanmar earthquake is one of the deadliest in the country’s recent history, and as relief operations continue, the full extent of the devastation is yet to be determined. With thousands left homeless and emergency services stretched thin, Myanmar now faces an urgent humanitarian crisis, and international aid will play a crucial role in the country's recovery.