Burma: The first tranche of humanitarian aid from India has reached the Yangon Airport in Myanmar, following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that hit the region on Friday causing widespread damage and loss of lives.
In Myanmar, the death toll has jumped to 694, and 1,670 people have been injured, the country’s military junta said on Saturday, according to CNN. The junta had made a plea for international assistance following the massive earthquake.
As India’s Operation Brahma got underway, “an Indian Air Force C-130 is carrying blankets, tarpaulin, hygiene kits, sleeping bags, solar lamps, food packets and kitchen sets. A search and rescue team and medical team is also accompanying this flight,” said Indian Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar stated.
Earlier Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated in a tweet: “Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand.”
Mandalay region
The figures for those dead and injured were only for the Mandalay region in the center of the country, and near the epicenter of the earthquake.
The death toll from the earthquake that struck central Myanmar could exceed 10,000, the United States Geological Survey estimated according to their early modeling on Friday.
The USGS issued a red alert for the estimated fatalities of the earthquake, indicating "high casualties and extensive damage."
Myanmar's military junta has made a plea for international assistance following the massive earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday.
