Authorities in Myanmar held a moment of silence today to honor the victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the country on March 28, causing widespread devastation and claiming over 2,800 lives.
According to Myanmar’s military leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the death toll has risen to 2,900 and could surpass 3,000.
At least 4,521 people have been injured, and 441 remain missing. The disaster also affected neighbouring Thailand, where at least 20 fatalities have been reported.
The earthquake, the strongest in over a century, destroyed homes, ancient pagodas, and modern buildings, leaving thousands homeless. Survivors continue to struggle with shortages of food, water, and shelter, while hospitals operate under extreme conditions, treating injured people outdoors due to overcrowding.
In Naypyidaw, rescue teams pulled a 63-year-old woman alive from the rubble 91 hours after the quake, though officials say chances of finding more survivors are diminishing.
The ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar has further complicated relief efforts, with reports indicating that the military has restricted access to some of the worst-affected areas. Amnesty International has urged authorities to allow unhindered humanitarian aid.
Meanwhile, in Thailand, search efforts continue in Bangkok, where an unfinished skyscraper collapsed due to the quake.
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