According to the military council’s announcement, the death toll from the March 28 earthquake that struck central Myanmar has risen to 3,354 people. The Mandalay Region suffered the highest casualties with 2,122 deaths, followed by 615 deaths in Naypyidaw Union Territory, 507 in Sagaing Region, 66 in Shan State, and 44 in Bago Region. Additionally, 4,508 people have been injured, and 220 people remain missing in the aftermath of the earthquake.
Aid groups are facing significant obstacles in their efforts to reach earthquake-affected areas due to restrictions imposed by the military council. Particularly in Sagaing and Bago regions, the military council has completely blocked access to areas controlled by revolutionary forces. Aid distribution is only permitted within Sagaing city proper, while access to outlying areas remains restricted, according to local sources.
The military council has also blocked humanitarian assistance to earthquake-affected areas in Thone Pan, Okwin, and Taungoo townships in Bago Region. Specifically, the transport of essential supplies such as food staples, rice, oil, and salt is prohibited, with orders that all donations must remain within city limits, according to donors. These restrictions have prevented earthquake victims from receiving timely and necessary assistance, leaving them in dire circumstances.
