The death toll from the devastating earthquakes that struck Myanmar has climbed to 1,002, with over 2,300 people injured and 30 still missing, according to state media reports on Saturday. Myanmar's state-run broadcaster MRTV reported the updated figures as rescue operations and international aid efforts intensify in the wake of Friday's twin quakes. The initial 7.7-magnitude earthquake, centered in the Sagaing region, was followed by a powerful 6.4-magnitude aftershock just 12 minutes later, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. China, India, Russia, and the United Nations were among the first to respond to Myanmar's rare appeal for humanitarian assistance. A China Eastern Airlines flight carrying 37 Chinese rescuers and five tons of medical supplies, tents, and blankets arrived in Yangon early Saturday. India also dispatched 15 tons of relief materials, including food, water purifiers, and medical equipment. Russia's Emergency Situations Ministry sent two aircraft with 120 personnel, including anesthesiologists, psychologists, rescue teams, and K9 units. Meanwhile, the UN announced the allocation of $5 million in emergency aid and is coordinating further support. Neighboring Thailand also reported significant damage, with 11 provinces affected. Authorities said eight people were confirmed dead and 101 were missing following the collapse of a skyscraper in Bangkok during the earthquake. In Myanmar, the impact on religious infrastructure was severe, with Khit Thit News reporting that nearly 50 mosques collapsed during Friday prayers, resulting in approximately 300 deaths. Countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, Pakistan, and New Zealand expressed solidarity and pledged additional support to Myanmar, which continues to grapple with widespread internal conflict. Myanmar junta chief Gen. Min Aung Hlaing visited heavily affected areas in the Mandalay region on Saturday, inspecting rescue efforts and emergency response coordination, MRTV reported via Telegram. As international relief continues to pour in, the government has warned that the casualty count may rise further due to widespread destruction and ongoing search and recovery operations. — Agencies
