India launched ‘Operation Brahma’ for immediate humanitarian assistance to the affected people in the aftermath of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday. Approximately 15 tons of relief materials have been flown into Yangon on an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J aircraft on Saturday.
First Responding Shorthand of India
Critical covers include tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, hygiene kits, generators, and essential medicines sent as India swiftly responded to Myanmar’s distress call to dispatch the urgent supplies, MEA’s spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed on a post on the social media platform X. As he stressed for India as a first responder in regional crises situations, he added, that the aid delivery was also facilitated and sealed through the initiative of the MEA Minister.
“#OperationBrahma – India acts as a First Responder to assist the people of Myanmar affected by yesterday’s massive earthquake. Our first tranche of 15 tonnes of relief material, including tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, hygiene kits, generators, and essential medicines, has landed in Yangon,” Jaiswal posted.
The relief supplies were officially handed over to Myanmar authorities upon arrival. The Indian Embassy in Myanmar is coordinating closely with local officials to ensure the rapid distribution of aid to the most affected regions.
Humanitarian Aid and Search & Rescue Operations Underway
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also reaffirmed India’s commitment to assisting Myanmar in this time of crisis. He stated that the government is monitoring the situation closely and will continue sending additional aid as needed.
“India dispatches first tranche of urgent humanitarian aid for the people of Myanmar. @IAF_MCC C-130 is carrying blankets, tarpaulin, hygiene kits, sleeping bags, solar lamps, food packets, and a kitchen set. A search & rescue team and medical team are also accompanying this flight. We will continue to monitor developments, and more aid will follow,” Jaishankar said on X.
The humanitarian assistance package also includes a search and rescue team along with a medical unit to help with emergency relief operations on the ground. These teams will assist local responders in providing medical care to the injured and supporting ongoing rescue efforts in the worst-hit areas.
Indian Embassy in Myanmar Ensures Constant Support
The Indian Embassy in Myanmar has assured that it remains in close contact with both Myanmar authorities and the Indian community residing in the country. It has set up an emergency helpline for Indian nationals who may need assistance.
“Following yesterday’s devastating earthquake, we are coordinating the speedy delivery of assistance & relief supplies from India with Myanmar authorities. We are also in constant touch with the Indian community. Reiterate our emergency number for needy Indian nationals: +95-95419602,” the Indian Embassy in Myanmar posted on X.
PM Modi Expresses Concern and Readiness to Assist
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern over the earthquake’s impact in Myanmar and neighboring Thailand. He assured that India is prepared to extend all possible assistance and has directed Indian authorities to remain on standby.
“Concerned by the situation in the wake of the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and well-being of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, I have asked our authorities to be on standby and the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand,” PM Modi posted on X.
Myanmar’s Earthquake: Devastation and International Response
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday has caused catastrophic destruction, particularly in the Mandalay region, which is near the quake’s epicenter. The Myanmar military junta has confirmed that at least 694 people have died and 1,670 have been injured. Authorities fear the death toll could rise significantly as search and rescue operations continue.
According to early modeling estimates from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the fatalities from this earthquake could exceed 10,000. The USGS has issued a red alert due to the high potential for casualties and widespread damage. Myanmar’s military junta has formally requested international assistance in the wake of this disaster.
The earthquake’s impact was felt far beyond Myanmar’s borders. Tremors were reported in neighboring Thailand, China’s Yunnan province, and even in high-rise buildings in Bangkok. Myanmar has since experienced at least 14 aftershocks, with magnitudes ranging from 3 to 6.7. The strongest aftershock, measuring 6.7, struck just 10 minutes after the main earthquake. These aftershocks have exacerbated the damage and continue to create panic among residents.
Massive Damage to Infrastructure
The strong tremors have caused extensive destruction to buildings, roads, and bridges in Myanmar’s central regions. In Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, many buildings collapsed, and infrastructure sustained heavy damage. Local authorities and rescue teams are working around the clock to try and locate survivors trapped under debris.
Rural villages have also been devastated, many having already been affected by the ongoing civil war in the country. This disaster is putting further pressure on Myanmar, which already has an extremely fragile infrastructure and emergency management system.
Global Humanitarian Efforts
Apart from India, other countries and organizations have expressed their willingness to assist Myanmar. The UN, Red Cross, and several NGOs are quickly mobilizing resources to offer emergency support. The ASEAN nations too are aiding in coordination of the relief support to Myanmar during this crisis.
India’s Continued Commitment to Humanitarian Assistance
India has a time-honored tradition of offering immediate humanitarian assistance to the neighboring countries facing turmoil. ‘Operation Brahma’ stands as another massive example of India’s commitment to regional stability and solidarity.
The Indian government has pledged that more relief material would be sent to Myanmar as necessary. In light of the situation, India is prepared to extend more assistance, fortifying its position as a key regional partner in the aftermath of disasters.
The chaotic next few days will be paramount for Myanmar’s recovery efforts, with aftershocks still rocking the region and the full extent of destruction yet to be realized. The quick response by India has lent immediate relief, and ongoing cooperation from the international community will be critical in assisting Myanmar to rebuild and recover from this catastrophic tragedy. source ANINEWS
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