South Korea to Provide $2 Million in Humanitarian Aid to Myanmar Following Devastating Earthquake
Click to start listening
Synopsis
South Korea is poised to provide $2 million in humanitarian aid to Myanmar in response to the destruction caused by a recent earthquake, as confirmed by Seoul's foreign ministry. The aid aims to support rapid response efforts for those affected by this disaster.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea pledges $2 million in aid.
- Over 1,002 fatalities reported from the quake.
- Severe damage to transport infrastructure.
- Emergency operations are underway.
- Assessment for further assistance will continue.
Seoul, March 29 (NationPress) South Korea intends to extend humanitarian assistance totaling $2 million to Myanmar to support individuals affected by the disastrous earthquake, the foreign ministry of Seoul announced on Saturday.
"We have resolved to deliver $2 million in humanitarian aid through an international organization to facilitate prompt responses to the devastation caused by the earthquake in Myanmar," stated the ministry.
The ministry also mentioned that it will assess the need for further assistance based on the evolving situation in the Southeast Asian nation, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
According to the Information Team of Myanmar's State Administration Council, at least 1,002 individuals lost their lives, 2,376 people sustained injuries, and 30 individuals remain unaccounted for due to the earthquake that struck Myanmar.
Rescue operations have been ramped up in Myanmar despite significant disruptions to transportation and communication networks following the powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that hit the country on Friday afternoon.
The quake, which originated close to Sagaing, triggered 12 aftershocks ranging from 2.8 to 7.5 in magnitude, exacerbating conditions in the affected regions.
The devastation is extensive, with Mandalay, Bago, Magway, northeastern Shan State, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw identified as the hardest-hit areas, according to reports from Xinhua news agency.
The Myanmar government has issued a national emergency declaration as emergency responders work diligently to assist those in need.
A crucial transport route, the Yangon-Mandalay highway, incurred severe damage near Nay Pyi Taw and Mandalay, complicating relief operations.
People have begun using the older Yangon-Mandalay road to reach the quake-affected areas and aid in rescue efforts. Moreover, the collapse of structures at Mandalay Airport and sections of the highway has further hindered travel between Yangon and Mandalay, Myanmar's two largest cities.
Rescue teams, including firefighters from lower Myanmar, have arrived in critically impacted areas like Nay Pyi Taw and Mandalay. However, damaged infrastructure, power outages, and interruptions to telephone and internet services have complicated relief efforts.
