Myanmar earthquake leaves thousands without access to water and medicine. Photo courtesy: The Standard (HK)
(The Post News)- Myanmar is facing a devastating crisis after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck on Friday, leaving over 2,700 people dead and more than 4,500 injured. The disaster has ravaged key infrastructure, including vital bridges and roads, and has sparked severe shortages of essential supplies like shelter, clean water, and medicine.
The UN has sounded the alarm about the severe drinking water shortage, which has raised fears of a potential cholera outbreak. With broken water pipes and septic tanks worsening the shortage, clean water has become the most urgent need due to the extreme heat. Hospitals are struggling to cope, with medical supplies rapidly depleting, and the World Health Organization has warned of critical shortages of running water and fuel.
Many survivors have been forced to spend the night outdoors without access to basic necessities like electricity and running water. The UN refugee agency has declared the situation a top-level humanitarian crisis and is dispatching emergency supplies, including plastic sheets, sleeping materials, and mosquito nets.
The international community is responding to the crisis, with several countries providing aid and support. China has sent rescue personnel and supplies, including medical kits and generators, while India has dispatched a field hospital unit and medical personnel. Other countries, including Russia, Malaysia, and South Korea, are also providing assistance.
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