News Brief
India Sends First Batch Of Humanitarian Aid To Myanmar As Earthquake Death Toll Surpasses 144, US Agency Warns Of Over 10,000 Casualties
India has send first batch of humanitarian assistance to Myanmar
A day after a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar, rescuers have been tirelessly digging through the rubble to look for survivors in Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city and the quake's epicenter, India Today reported.
At least 144 people have been killed, according to a Myanmar military leader.
Meanwhile, a US agency has warned that the death toll could surpass 10,000.
The earthquake was so powerful that even Bangkok, located 900 kilometers away, felt its impact. Several iconic structures and bridges collapsed as a result.
Strong tremors were also felt in parts of India, including Meghalaya and Manipur.
The tremors were also felt in Bangladesh, especially in Dhaka and Chattogram, and in China.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, the Thai government declared a state of emergency in Bangkok.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) issued a warning on Friday, stating that the earthquake might have led to "high casualties and extensive damage", with the death toll potentially exceeding 10,000.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is ready to offer any assistance needed.
"Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand," he said.
After PM Modi's announcement, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday (29 April) said that India has dispatched first tranche of urgent humanitarian aid for the people of Myanmar.
India has sent 15 tonnes of relief material, including solar lamps, food packets and kitchen sets, to Myanmar on an IAF C 130 J aircraft.
