Rescue teams are desperately searching for survivors in Myanmar after the largest earthquake in over a century devastated the region. More than 2,000 people have died, according to authorities, but the US Geological Survey estimates that the death toll could exceed 10,000.
The efforts to rescue survivors have been hampered by a shortage of heavy machinery. Additionally, destroyed roads and debris are obstructing relief efforts, according to the United Nations (UN).
The severe shortage of medical supplies — including trauma kits, blood bags, anesthetics, and assistive devices in a country isolated from the rest of the world — is also complicating relief efforts, said the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
The first foreign aid arrived after the ruling military government made a rare appeal for assistance. A Chinese team arrived in the country on Saturday morning, according to state media, while India sent a medical and rescue team.
Myanmar, one of the poorest nations in Asia, is recovering from a civil war triggered by a military coup in 2021. Its weak infrastructure makes it ill-equipped to handle large natural disasters. Aid groups have reported that communication blackouts and damaged roads are making it challenging to reach people in need of help.
The earthquake caused buildings to collapse hundreds of kilometers away. At least 10 people have died in the Thai capital, with authorities rushing to free more than 100 others believed to be trapped under the rubble of a construction skyscraper. Signs of life have been detected.
Source: CNN