Local residents report that 26 people have died and 166 others were injured due to the powerful earthquake that struck Meiktila city in Mandalay Region on March 28. The earthquake caused significant damage to buildings and pagodas throughout the city, with residential homes in various wards suffering collapse and destruction. Rescue operations have been particularly challenging due to embankment collapses and road blockages, according to local residents. The timing of the earthquake coincided with Islamic prayer times, which contributed to the high number of casualties.
Currently, 166 injured victims have been rushed to Meiktila Public Hospital for emergency treatment, while the bodies of 26 deceased individuals have also been transported to the facility, according to local sources. The earthquake damage includes collapsed residential buildings, fallen pagoda umbrellas and spires, as well as damaged embankments throughout the city. The destruction has been particularly severe, with multiple religious structures suffering significant damage alongside civilian infrastructure.
While local residents are actively engaged in emergency rescue operations for earthquake victims, they face significant challenges due to blocked roads and infrastructure damage. The transportation of injured people to hospitals has been delayed due to these access issues. Local residents report that they are currently conducting rescue operations with available community resources but require additional assistance to address the scale of the disaster. The situation remains critical as communities work to reach affected areas and provide necessary emergency services to those impacted by the earthquake.
