A powerful magnitude-7.7 earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, leaving at least 1,700 dead and 3,400 injured, according to the country’s State Administration Council. The disaster has triggered urgent relief operations from neighboring countries, with China spearheading cross-border aid efforts.
Rescue Teams Race Against Time
China dispatched two specialized rescue teams totaling 119 members within 24 hours of the quake. The first team from Yunnan Province arrived in Yangon on Saturday equipped with life detectors, drones, and early warning systems. By Sunday, they had rescued an elderly man trapped under debris in the capital Nay Pyi Taw. A second Chinese team joined search operations in Yangon to assist Myanmar personnel.
Red Cross Mobilizes Essential Supplies
The Red Cross Society of China sent 300 tents, 2,000 blankets, and household relief kits for 2,000 families through local partners. China has pledged 100 million yuan ($13.9 million) in emergency funding to support recovery efforts, citing 'shared responsibility in regional disaster response' in a statement from its International Development Cooperation Agency.
Hardest-Hit Regions Face Ongoing Challenges
Severe damage has been reported across Mandalay, Shan state, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw. Regional governments have called for international aid as roads remain blocked and aftershocks complicate rescue missions.
