India to send 15+ tonnes of aid to Myanmar following devastating earthquake

New Delhi: In response to the powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar, India has pledged to send over 15 tonnes of relief material to assist in the aftermath of the disaster. The earthquake, which has claimed the lives of over 144 people and left more than 700 injured, caused widespread devastation in the affected regions. The relief materials will be transported aboard an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J aircraft from Air Force Station Hindon, according to official sources.

The relief package includes essential items such as tents, sleeping bags, blankets, ready-to-eat meals, water purifiers, hygiene kits, solar lamps, generator sets, and crucial medicines like paracetamol, antibiotics, syringes, gloves, and bandages.

The Indian Embassy is closely monitoring the situation and has confirmed that no Indian nationals have been reported injured so far. The Embassy also shared that they are coordinating with Thai authorities to assess the impact of earthquake tremors recorded in Bangkok and other parts of Thailand, though no incidents involving Indian citizens have been reported in Thailand either. In case of emergencies, Indian nationals in Thailand have been advised to contact the emergency number +66 618819218.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the situation in Myanmar following the massive earthquake on Friday. He assured that India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. “Concerned by the situation in the wake of the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand,” PM Modi said on X (formerly Twitter), adding, “India stands ready to offer all possible assistance.”

According to Myanmar’s State Administration Council, the earthquake, which struck on Friday afternoon, has caused at least 1,002 deaths, 2,376 injuries, and left 30 people missing. Rescue efforts have been significantly hampered by severe disruptions to transportation and communication networks in the affected areas. The powerful 7.7-magnitude quake, originating near Sagaing, triggered 12 aftershocks, ranging from 2.8 to 7.5 in magnitude, exacerbating the devastation in the hardest-hit regions, including Mandalay, Bago, Magway, northeastern Shan State, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw.

In response to the widespread damage, Myanmar’s government has declared a national emergency, and emergency responders are working around the clock to assist the affected population.