Aftermath of the Devastating Earthquake in Sagaing, Myanmar
Three days following Myanmar’s most catastrophic earthquake in over a century, the remote city of Sagaing, already embroiled in conflict, has suffered immense destruction. The 7.7-magnitude quake left numerous monasteries and residential buildings in ruins, creating a dire situation for the city’s population.
The approximately 300,000 inhabitants of Sagaing have been left to navigate the aftermath largely on their own. The earthquake not only caused significant structural damage but also affected transportation routes, leading authorities to close a bridge due to safety concerns. This region was already facing isolation, as the military junta has restricted internet access amidst ongoing civil strife.
By late Monday, some international humanitarian organizations had begun to arrive in Sagaing to provide assistance. However, local volunteers, eager to engage in search and rescue operations, reported facing significant obstacles from military forces. U Tin Shwe, a local resident, expressed frustration, stating, “We are not allowed to freely enter and provide assistance.” He stood outside a military barricade near a collapsed monastery, where monks remained trapped under the rubble. “Rescue operations can only be carried out with their permission,” he added, highlighting the challenges faced by those wishing to help.
The military government announced on Monday that the death toll from the earthquake had risen to 2,056, an increase from approximately 1,700 reported on Saturday. Additionally, around 3,900 people were reported injured. Preliminary estimates from the U.S. Geological Survey suggest the actual number of fatalities could exceed 10,000.
Search-and-rescue teams have concentrated their efforts in Mandalay and Naypyidaw, the stronghold of Myanmar’s military leaders. Meanwhile, many residents have turned to social media platforms, imploring foreign governments to redirect essential aid to Sagaing, which is situated near the earthquake’s epicenter. Locals assert that over 80 percent of the town has been devastated, underscoring the urgent need for assistance in this beleaguered area.
