The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal for immediate humanitarian aid, emphasizing the critical need to act before the approaching monsoon season worsens the crisis. Marcoluigi Corsi, the acting humanitarian and resident coordinator for the UN in Myanmar, highlighted the pressing necessity for drinking water, hygiene products, food, shelter, and medical assistance. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stressed the importance of accelerating relief efforts, warning that delays could lead to more loss of life as heavy rains make conditions even more challenging.

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, resulting in a death toll exceeding 2,700 and leaving thousands injured. The disaster has caused widespread destruction, displacing countless families and leading to severe shortages of food, water, shelter, and medical supplies. Relief operations have been hindered by extensive damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings, further complicating efforts to reach affected areas.

Complicating the situation further, Myanmar’s ongoing civil conflict has made aid distribution increasingly difficult. The country has already been grappling with internal displacement, with over three million people forced from their homes before the earthquake struck. Aid organizations face significant obstacles in delivering relief to areas controlled by both government forces and opposition groups. The UN’s Special Envoy for Myanmar, Julie Bishop, has called for an immediate ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian operations and ensure the safety of relief workers.

International assistance has started arriving in Myanmar to help in rescue and recovery efforts. India has launched “Operation Brahma,” deploying an 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team to assist in search and rescue missions. India has also provided food packets, essential medicines, hygiene kits, tents, blankets, sleeping bags, and other emergency supplies. China has dispatched over 135 rescue personnel and medical kits, pledging approximately $13.8 million in aid. Russia has sent 120 rescuers and medical teams, while the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has mobilized emergency supplies to support around 25,000 survivors in the Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw regions.

However, aid delivery remains especially difficult in areas controlled by opposition forces, such as Sagaing. Reports suggest that military blockades are restricting access to affected regions, preventing much-needed relief from reaching survivors. The National Unity Government (NUG) and human rights organizations have accused Myanmar’s military of deliberately obstructing humanitarian assistance and have called for unrestricted aid distribution.

The earthquake has compounded an already dire humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. With the monsoon season fast approaching, urgent and coordinated international action is necessary to prevent further devastation. The UN and aid groups continue to push for immediate assistance, calling on the global community to support relief efforts before the situation worsens.