ASEAN Commits to Humanitarian Aid Following Earthquake in Myanmar

Synopsis

On March 29, ASEAN expressed its commitment to provide humanitarian assistance following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake in central Myanmar, which resulted in significant casualties and widespread destruction. The organization is mobilizing resources and teams to support recovery efforts in the affected areas.

Key Takeaways

ASEAN pledges support for Myanmar's earthquake recovery.
The earthquake measured 7.7 in magnitude.
1,002 lives lost and thousands injured in the disaster.
ASEAN's relief includes deployment of emergency response teams.
Rescue efforts face challenges due to communication disruptions.

Jakarta, March 29 (NationPress) The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) announced its readiness to assist in the relief and recovery efforts after a major 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday.

"ASEAN expresses its solidarity with the families and communities impacted by the earthquake and its consequences," ASEAN stated, extending its heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the people of Myanmar and Thailand.

Recognizing the urgent demand for humanitarian assistance, ASEAN outlined its relief and recovery initiatives, which include deploying the ASEAN-Emergency Response and Assessment Team, utilizing the Disaster Emergency Logistics System for ASEAN, and offering Urban Search and Rescue support, based on priorities identified by Myanmar and Thailand, reports Xinhua news agency.

Moreover, ASEAN reaffirmed its commitment to closely coordinating humanitarian assistance efforts. With the backing of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management, ASEAN will facilitate relief operations to ensure a prompt and effective humanitarian response.

The catastrophic earthquake in Myanmar has resulted in 1,002 fatalities, left 2,376 individuals injured, and 30 people reported missing, according to the Information Team of the country's State Administration Council in a report around 11:20 a.m. local time Saturday.

Rescue operations have intensified in Myanmar despite significant disruptions to transportation and communication networks.

The quake, which originated near Sagaing, triggered 12 aftershocks ranging from 2.8 to 7.5 in magnitude, further deteriorating conditions in affected areas.

The devastation has been extensive, with Mandalay, Bago, Magway, northeastern Shan State, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw among the most severely impacted regions.

As authorities and rescue teams work tirelessly to support those affected by the disaster, Myanmar faces the formidable challenge of recovering from one of its most potent earthquakes in recent history.

Meanwhile, Thai authorities reported on Saturday that nine individuals have died, ten were injured, and 101 others remain missing in the capital, Bangkok, following the earthquake that sent strong tremors across Thailand.