Pakistan has delivered its first humanitarian consignment to Myanmar following the catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the Southeast Asian nation on March 28.
The earthquake, which devastated large parts of Myanmar, has resulted in over 3,000 confirmed deaths, with thousands more injured or missing. Pakistan’s swift response is part of a broader commitment to assist Myanmar in its time of need.
“Pakistan’s first consignment of 35 tons for earthquake affectees was handed over to Myanmar Authorities at Yangon International Airport, Myanmar” reads the NDMA statement.
Devastation in Myanmar
The earthquake, centered near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, caused widespread destruction across several regions, including Mandalay, Sagaing, Bago, Nay Pyi Taw, and parts of Shan State. Thousands of buildings have collapsed, infrastructure has been severely damaged, and many areas remain isolated due to destroyed roads and disrupted communications.
Myanmar’s military authorities have confirmed that 3,085 people have died, with 4,715 others injured and 341 still missing. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue and the full extent of the damage becomes clearer.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan, through the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), has pledged 70 tons of relief goods to Myanmar. The first consignment, which includes food, water, and medical supplies, was handed over to Myanmar authorities at Yangon International Airport on Thursday.
Ambassador of Pakistan to Myanmar, Imran Haider, along with embassy officials, officially delivered the aid to the Chief Minister of Yangon Region and the Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).
“The Government of Pakistan and Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority remains steadfast in its commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to earthquake-affected people of Myanmar,” stated the NDMA.
Immediate needs and ongoing crisis
The earthquake has further exacerbated an already fragile humanitarian situation in Myanmar, where ongoing civil conflict and displacement have left millions in need of assistance. Even before the earthquake, nearly 20 million people in Myanmar required humanitarian aid due to conflict and poverty.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has appealed for US$17.3 million to support the urgent needs of those affected. “The immediate needs of those affected include shelter, food, health services, water, sanitation, and mental health and psychosocial support,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope.
While immediate relief efforts continue, the long-term recovery and rehabilitation of affected communities will require sustained international support. With millions already displaced due to conflict, Myanmar’s path to recovery from this devastating earthquake will be fraught with challenges.
Pakistan’s delivery of aid is a significant step in addressing the urgent needs of those affected by the earthquake. As the crisis deepens, international support will be vital in helping Myanmar recover and rebuild in the aftermath of this unprecedented disaster.