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Over 2,700 individuals lost their lives in a tragic earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28
Following an earthquake, there is a critical 72-hour period where those trapped under debris have the best chance of survival.
However, after a 7.7 magnitude quake hit Myanmar, rescue and relief efforts were hindered by military authorities, preventing access to the most affected areas, as reported by various aid and human rights organizations to the BBC.
Despite a rare plea for international aid from junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, obstacles persisted.
As the golden window of opportunity closed, the death toll in Myanmar climbed to over 2,886.
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The earthquake was the strongest to hit Myanmar in more than a century
An attack on an aid convoy on Tuesday night further escalated concerns.
The convoy, carrying earthquake relief supplies, was fired upon by the military, forcing it to retreat, as reported by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army.
The military claimed they were unaware of the convoy’s passage and fired warning shots, but this incident adds to a pattern of hindering aid efforts in Myanmar.
The military regime in Myanmar has a history of weaponizing aid, prioritizing areas under its control while restricting assistance in opposition-held regions.
This tactic has been observed in previous natural disasters and continues to hinder relief efforts in the current earthquake aftermath.
The junta’s actions have raised concerns about punishing populations and depriving them of much-needed aid.
Efforts are underway to ensure relief reaches those in need, amidst challenges posed by the military government.
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Volunteers have played a crucial role in the earthquake rescue operations, working tirelessly to rescue survivors trapped in the rubble
Shortages of essential supplies and aid delays are already impacting affected areas like Sagaing, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated relief efforts.
Residents are facing hardships as they await assistance, with many forced to sleep outdoors due to the lack of shelter.
Los voluntarios de Getty Images que se vieron obligados a cavar entre los escombros con las manos desnudas se han quedado sin bolsas para los cuerpos de aquellos a los que no pudieron salvar. Otros miembros de la comunidad que buscan responder al terremoto se ven obligados a obtener autorización de las autoridades de la junta presentando listas de voluntarios y artículos a donar, según informó la prensa local. Esta táctica, de bombardear a los socorristas con largas listas de verificación y procesos burocráticos, es rutinariamente utilizada por la junta para restringir las actividades de las organizaciones de ayuda internacional en Myanmar, según fuentes humanitarias citadas por la BBC. The images provided by Getty Images