Myanmar is in a state of mourning following a devastating earthquake that hit on Friday, with the death toll surpassing 2,000. National flags are being flown at half-mast through April 6 to honor the lives lost.
As rescue operations continue, the situation remains grim, particularly in Mandalay, where residents are forced to sleep on the streets due to the fear of aftershocks and the collapse of already damaged buildings.
The earthquake’s impact is worsened by the ongoing civil war, which has already crippled the nation’s healthcare system. Many injured people are being treated in outdoor makeshift hospitals due to the destruction of medical facilities.
Though some international aid has arrived from countries like China, Russia, and India, the full extent of the damage remains unclear, and many areas are still cut off from communication.
Adding to the complexity, the military junta continues to carry out airstrikes against anti-coup fighters, further complicating relief efforts. With millions displaced by the conflict, the already fragile situation is worsened by the earthquake.
Humanitarian organizations such as the WHO and the Red Cross are working to provide assistance, but the scale of the disaster and the need for funds remains overwhelming. Myanmar faces a long road to recovery, burdened by both the immediate crisis and its ongoing civil conflict.
