A 7.7-magnitude earthquake has left over 2,000 dead and rescue operations hampered by military restrictions in the war-torn city of Sagaing.
**Devastation in Myanmar: Earthquake Response Hindered by Military Blockades**
**Devastation in Myanmar: Earthquake Response Hindered by Military Blockades**
Residents and volunteers in Sagaing face obstacles in relief efforts following a catastrophic earthquake.
The destruction in Sagaing, Myanmar, is staggering as the region grapples with the aftermath of its most severe earthquake in over a hundred years. On March 31, 2025, a powerful 7.7-magnitude quake devastated the city, razing essential infrastructure, including monasteries and residential buildings, and leaving a population of approximately 300,000 largely unsupported.
Initial reports indicated the death toll had tragically escalated to over 2,056, with thousands more injured. Despite the code red situation, international aid has only begun to trickle in three days post-quake. The military, which has been engaged in a longstanding civil conflict, has imposed restrictions on local volunteers attempting to conduct search-and-rescue efforts.
Reports from reluctant residents, like U Tin Shwe, showcase their frustrations, citing, “We are not allowed to freely enter and provide assistance.” Many volunteers have found their efforts thwarted by military barricades while trying to access critical areas such as collapsed monasteries where monks remain trapped.
Despite ongoing crises in places like Mandalay and Naypyidaw, the epicenter of the earthquake is in dire need. Social media appeals from residents highlight the catastrophic level of destruction, with claims that over 80% of Sagaing has been obliterated. The military government’s focus remains on areas less affected, intensifying calls for a redirection of help to where it is urgently needed, as victims continue to suffer from the consequences of this devastating natural disaster.
Initial reports indicated the death toll had tragically escalated to over 2,056, with thousands more injured. Despite the code red situation, international aid has only begun to trickle in three days post-quake. The military, which has been engaged in a longstanding civil conflict, has imposed restrictions on local volunteers attempting to conduct search-and-rescue efforts.
Reports from reluctant residents, like U Tin Shwe, showcase their frustrations, citing, “We are not allowed to freely enter and provide assistance.” Many volunteers have found their efforts thwarted by military barricades while trying to access critical areas such as collapsed monasteries where monks remain trapped.
Despite ongoing crises in places like Mandalay and Naypyidaw, the epicenter of the earthquake is in dire need. Social media appeals from residents highlight the catastrophic level of destruction, with claims that over 80% of Sagaing has been obliterated. The military government’s focus remains on areas less affected, intensifying calls for a redirection of help to where it is urgently needed, as victims continue to suffer from the consequences of this devastating natural disaster.
