Myanmar Earthquake: India Delivers 15 Tons of Relief Supplies
In a swift humanitarian response to the devastating earthquakes that struck Myanmar and parts of Thailand on Friday, India has launched ‘Operation Brahma’, delivering emergency relief supplies to the disaster-hit region.
An Indian Air Force cargo plane landed in Yangon carrying approximately 15 metric tons of humanitarian aid, including tents, blankets, food packets, sleeping bags, hygiene kits, power generators, and essential medicines. The operation marks India’s first official relief deployment to its eastern neighbor following the disaster.
Our first consignment has arrived in Yangon. India stands with the people of Myanmar in this difficult time,
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
Over 1,000 Dead, Widespread Destruction
According to an AFP report, more than 1,000 people were killed and at least 1,600 injured in the quakes, which also caused massive structural damage, leaving thousands homeless. Myanmar’s government has declared a state of emergency in six of the hardest-hit regions.
In Naypyidaw, the capital, a major hospital reported hundreds of casualties. The facility’s emergency department was partially destroyed in the tremors, trapping a car beneath the rubble at the entrance.
Myanmar’s Prime Minister, Min Aung Hlaing, addressed the nation in a televised speech, warning that the death toll is likely to rise as rescue operations continue.
“I would like to invite any country, any organization, or anyone in Myanmar to come and help,” he said after visiting victims at a hospital in the capital.
Global Response Grows
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and pledged full support, writing on social media that India is “ready to provide all possible assistance” to those impacted by the catastrophe.
Other countries have also responded to Myanmar’s call for international assistance. Russia dispatched two emergency aircraft from the Ministry of Emergency Situations, loaded with rescue personnel, canine units, medical professionals, psychologists, and relief equipment. The Russian flights departed Zhukovsky Airport near Moscow late Friday.
In neighboring Thailand, where tremors were also felt, Bangkok declared an emergency zone. Several metro and light rail lines were suspended, and at least six people were confirmed dead in the Thai capital, according to local media.