Mandalay worst-hit in Myanmar quake: 2,053 dead

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, claiming 3,145 lives nationwide, with Mandalay suffering the heaviest losses, according to official sources on Friday. The quake, one of the deadliest in Myanmar's history, also left 4,589 injured and 221 missing as of Thursday.

In Mandalay, the epicenter region, 2,053 people were confirmed dead, 2,691 injured, and 210 missing. Nay Pyi Taw, the capital, recorded 511 deaths and Sagaing Region reported 471 fatalities.

International response has mobilized swiftly. The Quad alliance—Australia, India, Japan, and the United States—announced over $20 million in aid. Relief includes medical teams, supplies, and logistical support to humanitarian organizations already on the ground.

A joint Quad statement expressed condolences and urged Myanmar factions to uphold partial ceasefires, enabling unhindered delivery of aid. The group also endorsed ASEAN’s humanitarian efforts and recent appeals for stability.

India, reaffirming its ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies, has launched Operation Brahma, supplying Myanmar with emergency relief and medical aid. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Myanmar’s military leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, where he reiterated India’s support and sorrow over the disaster.

The joint efforts highlight a rare moment of international consensus in addressing the unfolding humanitarian crisis. Myanmar continues to grapple with widespread infrastructure damage, displaced populations, and disrupted communications, with rescue and recovery operations ongoing across the quake-stricken regions.