Myanmar’s Earthquake Disaster: A Country Already in Crisis Faces More Hardship
Myanmar, a country already struggling with war, hunger, and a weak economy, is now dealing with the destruction caused by a powerful earthquake. According to BBC, the 7.7-magnitude quake struck Sagaing, a city in central Myanmar, on Friday, sending shockwaves as far as Mandalay and even the capital, Nay Pyi Taw, which is over 150 miles (241 km) away.
BBC reports that getting information from Myanmar is difficult. Many areas have no electricity or internet, making it hard for the world to see the full scale of the disaster. The country also has strict media restrictions, preventing foreign journalists from entering.
How Did Myanmar Get Here?
Myanmar’s struggles didn’t start with this earthquake. BBC explains that the country has faced instability for decades, from military rule to civil wars. In 2021, a military coup led by General Min Aung Hlaing overthrew the democratic government of Aung San Suu Kyi, leading to massive protests that turned into full-scale war between the military and resistance fighters.
For the past four years, violence has only worsened. The military has lost control of large areas, and millions of people live in constant fear, struggling to find food and medical care. BBC states that over 3.5 million people have been forced to flee their homes, while food prices have skyrocketed.
To make matters worse, the UN recently announced that it will reduce food aid to over a million people in Myanmar due to funding issues. This follows another disaster just months ago, when Typhoon Yagi caused deadly floods, killing more than 200 people and destroying farmland.
Earthquake Strikes at the Worst Time
Now, Myanmar is facing another disaster. BBC reports that the earthquake hit a region already suffering from war, making relief efforts even harder. Sagaing, the city at the center of the quake, is a stronghold for rebels and was recently bombed by the military. Mandalay, another affected area, has seen intense fighting between resistance forces and the army.
Hospitals are overwhelmed with injured people, and BBC sources say that a hospital in Nay Pyi Taw, where the military government is based, has turned into a “mass casualty site.” Buildings and roads are severely damaged, with images showing the extent of destruction.
In response, Myanmar’s military has declared a state of emergency and, for the first time in a long while, requested international aid. But with an ongoing war and a struggling government, it’s unclear how quickly help will arrive.
What Happens Next?
The people of Myanmar are already suffering from war and poverty, and now they must survive this new crisis. With the military losing control and rebels gaining ground, the country is in chaos. The question remains: will this earthquake push Myanmar’s leaders to prioritize saving lives, or will the fighting continue?
As BBC continues to report on the situation, the world waits to see if Myanmar will get the help it desperately needs.
Credit: BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgwgmkmgzdo