Myanmar Spring Chronicle – April 1 Scene
MoeMaKa, April 2, 2025
Nearly 3,000 Dead, Earthquake Relief Efforts & Armed Conflicts Intensify
Four days after the devastating earthquake on March 28, hopes of survival for those trapped under collapsed buildings are fading. Meanwhile, international rescue teams are coordinating with local rescue groups to maximize their efforts in saving lives.
Neighboring countries China and India, along with some ASEAN nations and other global allies, deployed rescue teams immediately after the disaster. Since then, relief operations have been actively ongoing in Mandalay and Naypyidaw, with full-force rescue missions continuing to this day.
According to statements from the military junta, the death toll has exceeded 2,700, with around 4,000 injured and hundreds reported missing. However, local relief workers believe the actual numbers may be much higher. In smaller towns such as Pyawbwe and Kyaukse, the death toll has risen to between 300 and 500, indicating that when combined with casualties from Mandalay, Sagaing, Naypyidaw, and Pyinmana, the numbers could significantly exceed official estimates.
Aftershocks continue to shake Mandalay, Sagaing, Pyinmana, and Naypyidaw, leaving already damaged homes uninhabitable. Fear of further collapses has forced residents to spend four consecutive nights sleeping on streets, under trees, or on roadside platforms. In the coming days, challenges such as sanitation, drinking water shortages, and extreme heat are expected to worsen.
Reports indicate that the bodies of those trapped under rubble are beginning to decompose, releasing a strong stench. Given the priority of locating survivors, clearing debris has not yet been a focus.
Mandalay, home to 1.5 million people, is struggling with destruction, fatalities, and health concerns due to ongoing aftershocks. The military junta’s failure to effectively manage emergency response efforts is becoming increasingly apparent. While some neighboring countries have offered emergency aid and medical supplies, concerns are growing over whether the junta will fairly distribute these resources. Past experiences, such as the mishandling of international aid during the 2008 Cyclone Nargis disaster, have fueled distrust, as military-aligned forces were accused of diverting relief supplies for their own use.
Another major concern is that despite the urgent need for aid in conflict-affected regions such as Sagaing and Mandalay, the junta remains preoccupied with monitoring opposition forces rather than facilitating relief efforts. Additionally, military airstrikes continue in northern Shan and other regions, highlighting the regime’s prioritization of territorial control over disaster relief.
Although civilians from nearby towns like Monywa have attempted to send aid to earthquake victims in Sagaing, reports indicate that the junta is closely monitoring and restricting such efforts. Even in the midst of this disaster, the military maintains strict control and continues airstrikes, showing no signs of easing its grip.
In response, the National Unity Government (NUG) announced a two-week suspension of military operations to focus on disaster relief. Similarly, the Three Brotherhood Alliance (AA, TNLA, and MNDAA) declared a unilateral ceasefire for one month in conflict zones on the evening of April 1.
The junta, however, has not officially responded to these declarations. Observations on the ground suggest that airstrikes have continued, reinforcing the perception that the military prioritizes power and control even during natural disasters. International media have increasingly reported on the ongoing airstrikes despite the dire need for humanitarian assistance.
Throughout history, there have been instances where warring factions set aside conflicts to unite in relief efforts, leading to peace. However, given the current situation in Myanmar, such hopes seem far-fetched.
For now, Myanmar’s future remains shrouded in darkness, with little sign of hope on the horizon.