Myanmar earthquake: death toll rises to 3471, heavy rain hampers relief efforts

Yangon: The death toll from the earthquake that shook Myanmar has risen to 3,471. Heavy rains in the past days have complicated relief efforts. Strong winds and rain have badly affected relief workers and tent camps in Mandalay. Relief agencies have expressed concern that the weather change could lead to the spread of diseases such as cholera among earthquake victims in Myanmar.

The earthquake caused significant losses in Myanmar with a population of 50 million. The full extent of the damage has not yet been assessed. Well over three million people have already been displaced, and approximately 20 million have received assistance.

Media confirm that 3,471 people were killed, 4,671 injured, and 214 missing in the earthquake. More than 5,200 buildings, 1,800 schools, 4,800 pagodas and temples, 167 hospitals and clinics, 169 bridges, 198 dams, and 184 sections of the country’s main roads have also been damaged. Relief efforts are also underway under Operation Brahma. The Indian Embassy in Myanmar said that 800 patients had been treated till Sunday.

India has sent 442 tonnes of food to Myanmar. As part of Operation Brahma, India had earlier sent 625 metric tons of relief materials. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising 80 personnel, is on standby for rescue operations. Relief operations are in progress.