Government cuts internet: Death toll in Myanmar earthquake disaster exceeds 1,600
As the death toll from the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar surpasses 1,600, the international community has mobilized to provide aid. The military administration has declared a state of emergency, and communication outages are hindering relief efforts.
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The severe earthquake in Myanmar has deeply affected the country. The 7.7-magnitude tremor occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, with its epicenter in Mandalay.
Following the earthquake, more than twenty aftershocks, including a 6.4-magnitude tremor, were recorded. According to the latest data, the death toll has risen to 1,644, with 3,408 people injured and 139 missing. The military administration has declared a state of emergency and issued a call for blood donations.
INTERNATIONAL AID EFFORTS
Following the earthquake, aid efforts have accelerated worldwide. US President Donald Trump announced that they would provide aid to Myanmar. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed messages of support. The United Nations pledged 5 million dollars, the European Union 2.5 million euros, and South Korea 2 million dollars in aid.
China sent 14 million dollars in emergency aid, while Russia dispatched health and rescue teams via two aircraft. However, access to information has become difficult due to internet restrictions and media pressure. While Starlink is preparing to provide internet infrastructure support, local media reported that some resistance groups are using this system to bypass government restrictions.
SITUATION IN THAILAND
The earthquake was also felt in Thailand, where 78 people are missing and at least 10 people have lost their lives following the collapse of a building in the capital, Bangkok. On Saturday morning, the metro and light rail systems in Bangkok reopened and flights resumed, but disruptions continued. The greatest destruction occurred with the collapse of a 33-story building, and many construction workers are among those trapped under the rubble.
The situation in Myanmar is more complex. In a country struggling with civil war since the 2021 coup, the earthquake has further strained institutions already under pressure. According to the UN, 3.5 million people are displaced in the country, and aid activities are being kept limited. Federica Franco, Myanmar director for Doctors Without Borders, stated that delivering aid is nearly impossible due to communication outages.