7.7 magnitude earthquake devastates Myanmar, over 2,700 dead

(Web Desk): A 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has caused widespread devastation, with 2,719 people reported dead and 4,521 injured. Authorities have stated that the death toll could exceed 3,000.

The earthquake struck on Friday afternoon and has been described as the worst natural disaster in a century, causing both ancient pagodas and modern buildings to collapse.

There is a severe shortage of water, food, and medical aid in the affected areas, and people are being forced to spend the night on streets and open fields due to fear of aftershocks.

According to the United Nations, in Mandalay, the collapse of a preschool building killed 50 children and 2 teachers. Aid organizations are working to provide basic necessities to the victims, but ongoing civil conflict in the country is obstructing relief efforts.

Since Myanmar's military coup in 2021, the civil war has been hindering the delivery of aid to the earthquake victims. Amnesty International has called on the Myanmar military to ensure humanitarian access to the affected areas. Meanwhile, rebel groups have accused the military of continuing airstrikes even after the earthquake.

In Thailand, Myanmar’s neighboring country, the effects of the earthquake were also felt. In Bangkok, an unfinished skyscraper collapsed, killing 13 people and leaving 74 missing. Rescue teams are working to search for 70 people trapped under the debris, but after four days, hopes of finding survivors are fading.

Investigations have revealed that substandard steel was used in the construction of the building, prompting the government to launch an inquiry.