Myanmar Endures 98 Aftershocks After Devastating 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake
Myanmar is reeling from the aftermath of a catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck on March 28, leaving a trail of destruction, grief, and uncertainty. In the 11 days since the massive quake hit, the Southeast Asian country has experienced 98 aftershocks, some as powerful as magnitude 7.5, deepening the trauma and complicating rescue and recovery efforts.
According to Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, the tremors ranged from magnitude 2.8 to 7.5, keeping residents on edge and hampering both local and international relief operations. The death toll has surged to 3,600, with more than 5,000 people injured and at least 160 individuals still unaccounted for, based on updates from the State Administration Council's Information Team.
The initial quake devastated several major cities including Mandalay, Sagaing, and Naypyitaw. Infrastructure collapsed, buildings crumbled, and thousands of families were displaced in mere moments. A powerful 6.4-magnitude aftershock struck minutes after the first tremor, worsening the destruction. In response, Myanmar declared a week-long national mourning period to honor the victims of the disaster.
As hospitals overflow with the injured, the country is facing a critical shortage of medical supplies and personnel. Makeshift clinics have been established, and volunteers are working tirelessly to provide support. Despite the difficulties, international aid is beginning to pour in, although access to remote and severely affected areas remains a major challenge due to damaged roads and disrupted communications.
The United Nations, alongside several international humanitarian organizations, has mobilized emergency teams to assist with search and rescue operations, deliver food and water, and provide shelter to the displaced population. Nations such as the United States, India, and members of the European Union have extended solidarity and are actively involved in relief efforts.
India has taken a leading role in regional support by launching 'Operation Brahma', a comprehensive relief initiative that reflects India’s 'Neighbourhood First' and 'Act East' policies. Under this operation, India has airlifted and delivered large quantities of medical equipment, food, clothing, and emergency supplies to Myanmar. Specially trained disaster relief teams have also been deployed to assist in rescue operations.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed heartfelt condolences and solidarity with Myanmar. In direct communication with Myanmar’s State Administration Council Chairman and Prime Minister, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to standing by its neighbor in this time of profound crisis. During the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on April 4, the two leaders met to discuss the humanitarian situation and India's ongoing aid initiative.
General Min Aung Hlaing expressed his gratitude to India for its swift and robust response, acknowledging India's role as the first responder. PM Modi reiterated that India remains ready to scale up assistance if necessary, underscoring a long-standing relationship rooted in regional cooperation and mutual support.
Despite these efforts, the scale of the disaster remains daunting. The continued aftershocks are exacerbating the psychological toll on survivors and delaying recovery efforts. Many families remain under temporary shelters, fearing further collapses. Aid workers have reported that the trauma experienced by children and elderly survivors is particularly severe, with many requiring immediate psychological care in addition to medical treatment.
Rebuilding efforts are expected to take months, if not years. Myanmar’s government has requested sustained support from the international community and has pledged to direct all available national resources to rehabilitation and reconstruction.
This disaster also highlights the urgent need for improved earthquake preparedness and building codes across the region. Myanmar lies within a seismically active zone, and experts warn that similar events could occur again if mitigation strategies aren’t prioritized. The international community is urging Myanmar to invest in long-term resilience, including early warning systems, earthquake-resistant infrastructure, and community education.
As the country mourns its dead and continues to search for those still missing, the resilience of the Myanmar people is shining through amid the heartbreak. Communities are coming together to support one another, local volunteers are risking their lives to pull people from the rubble, and international allies are working around the clock to help Myanmar begin its long road to recovery.
While the crisis is far from over, global solidarity and regional cooperation offer a glimmer of hope for a nation in deep sorrow. The journey ahead is challenging, but with sustained aid and strategic planning, Myanmar can emerge stronger and more prepared for the future.
Refrence From: www.ndtv.com