After a 7.7 magnitude earthquake caused devastation across Myanmar, a MAF vehicle reached the capital Naypyitaw to bring hope.
MAF’s team has begun its response to the Myanmar earthquake by delivering essential supplies to capital Naypyitaw, where people are trying to rebuild their lives after widespread destruction.
The earthquake, which struck on March 28, had an epicentre in Sagaing Township, 16km west of the second-largest city Mandalay city. It was the largest earthquake in Myanmar in more than 100 years and killed an estimated 3000 people. The World Health Organisation said more than 10,000 buildings overall had collapsed or been severely damaged by the quake, but getting an accurate assessment of the impact is extremely challenging.
Deeram Khong, MAF’s General Manager in Myanmar, led the delivery of supplies to Naypyitaw and said it was heartbreaking to see the destruction caused by the natural disaster.
“I was filled with mixed emotions as we entered the town - joy at returning after five long years, and deep sadness at seeing the immense destruction the earthquake had brought upon the once-beautiful Naypyitaw,” Deeram said.
“The most significant destruction we witnessed today was at key government buildings. Nearly all the buildings are in ruins, and it will take a long time to repair or rebuild them.”
The drive from Yangon should take four to five hours but a temporary road closure at the Swa Bridge reconstruction caused a delay of another hour.
Bringing a MAF vehicle loaded with bottled water and instant noodles, the team were only able to distribute supplies to staff at four government ministries that MAF has worked closely with to establish MAF’s work in the nation. The majority of the water bottles were left with a MAF representative who will continue the deliveries tomorrow to more affected communities.
Deeram added: “Many people are now sleeping on the floors of a monastery and some are sleeping right next to their ruined buildings with mosquito nets and tents under unbearable temperature raging around 40 degrees Celsius.
“Three out of the four locations we visited requested a water purification system, even if it’s just a small set-up so that they don't have to worry for drinking water. We took water samples from all three sites in case we can help or find a partner who can help.”
MAF’s Global Director of Disaster Response Rick Emenaker, Country Director for Myanmar Chad Tilley and engineer Terry Fahey have arrived in Yangon to prepare the next stages of the response. They are preparing a larger delivery of supplies which will be distributed to families at the end of this week.