By Ai Igarashi | Ai Igarashi
Thank you for your generous support. We are incredibly grateful for your contribution, which enables us to respond to the urgent needs in Mandalay after the recent earthquake.
Following the devastating earthquake, our team arrived in Mandalay on April 9th, having departed from Yangon on April 8th. This initial report details the catastrophic situation we witnessed on our first day in the city, accompanied by photographic evidence.
Mandalay has been ravaged by the earthquake, the scale of destruction a stark contrast to what we saw on the journey from Yangon. Countless buildings lie in ruins, and local leaders estimate that approximately 85% of homes across the city have sustained damage.The immense scale of the destruction suggests that reconstruction efforts will likely take a decade, if not two, or even longer. Compounding this challenge, the ongoing civil conflict has severely limited Myanmar’s access to the essential knowledge and resources required for such a massive undertaking.
Despite the overwhelming devastation, the resilience and compassion of the people in Mandalay stand out as they support each other, sharing scarce food and water. However, their living conditions remain precarious, with the constant threat of aftershocks leaving many too fearful to sleep inside their damaged homes. Some have sought refuge in pagodas, creating makeshift camps, while countless others are forced to sleep under mosquito nets on the sidewalks, exposed to the elements near their shattered residences.The task of rebuilding their lives and homes will undoubtedly be immense and time-consuming.
A significant and growing concern is the rapidly deteriorating sanitation in the overcrowded evacuation areas. Prolonged exposure to these unsanitary conditions will inevitably lead to an increased risk of disease outbreaks.
Adding to these challenges, the region is now entering the rainy season, which also brings an increased risk of cyclones, further jeopardizing the vulnerable population. The need for assistance across all sectors – including clothing, food, and shelter – is overwhelming. Terra Renaissance is committed to working closely with local communities to understand their most urgent needs and to deliver prompt and effective aid where it is needed most.
Countless individuals in Myanmar have lost everything and are now facing unimaginable hardship. We urgently appeal for your generous support to help them rebuild their lives and restore their peace and security as quickly as possible.
Looking ahead, our teams will continue to conduct thorough assessments in Mandalay and the surrounding areas to determine the most effective ways to provide support. We will keep you updated on the progress of our survey and support implementation.
Your compassionate support during this critical time is deeply appreciated and will make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected.
Terra Renaissance Correspondent
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