**Myanmar Earthquake: Death Toll Rises to 1,644 Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts**
The death toll from the recent earthquake in Myanmar has reached 1,644, with 3,408 individuals reported injured, according to the ruling junta. The 7.7-magnitude quake struck on Friday, leaving at least 139 people still unaccounted for. The military junta initially reported over 1,000 fatalities earlier on Saturday.
### Impact on Infrastructure and Humanitarian Efforts
– **Damaged Infrastructure**: The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has highlighted that damaged infrastructure is severely hindering rescue operations.
– **Service Disruptions**: The Yangon/Naypyidaw/Mandalay expressway has suffered significant damage, causing disruptions in bus services due to cracks and surface distortions.
– **Casualty Reports**: Initial field reports indicate that over 1,600 people have died, more than 2,200 have been injured, and over 200 remain missing as search-and-rescue efforts continue. Most casualties have been reported in the Mandalay area.
### State of Emergency Declared
A state of emergency has been declared in six regions: Bago, Mandalay, Naypyidaw, Sagaing, and parts of Shan state. The military junta has called for international assistance as the situation unfolds.
### Damage Assessment
– **Infrastructure Damage**: Mandalay international airport has suspended commercial flights, and major bridges, roads, universities, hotels, and public service buildings have been heavily damaged or destroyed.
– **Displacement**: Thousands are now spending nights outdoors due to the destruction of their homes and fears of aftershocks.
– **Communication Disruptions**: Supply infrastructure and communication towers have been severely impacted, leading to unstable landline, mobile, and internet services.
### Urgent Humanitarian Assistance Needed
The emergency relief coordinator has allocated $5 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund to support urgent response efforts. Hospitals and health facilities have experienced extensive damage, leading to a critical shortage of medical supplies, including trauma kits and essential medicines.
The European Union has pledged €2.5 million ($2.7 million) in initial emergency aid and is assessing further needs on the ground. “The EU stands in solidarity with the people of Myanmar and the broader region enduring the aftermath of this powerful earthquake,” a spokesperson stated.
### Conclusion
As the full scale of the disaster becomes clearer, urgent humanitarian assistance is crucial for those affected. How can the international community best support Myanmar in this time of need?
**FAQs:**
**What is the current death toll from the Myanmar earthquake?**
The death toll has risen to 1,644, with thousands more injured and many still missing.