‘Hear their cries but can’t reach them’: Rescuers describe horror of pulling Myanmar earthquake victims from rubble

Rescue workers are struggling without proper equipment. «We are digging with our bare hands. It’s not enough,» a rescuer told the BBC. «People are screaming, ‘Help me!’ but we can’t reach them in time.»

Mandalay hit hard, rescue efforts continue

Mandalay is among the worst-affected areas. In Sky Villa Condominium, a high-rise building, more than 90 people are feared trapped. «We need heavy machinery to move the rubble,» said a Red Cross official. «We can still hear voices, but we don’t know where they are.»

The disaster has forced Myanmar’s military government to make a rare request for international help. India sent aid flight and Navy ships with food and hygiene supplies.

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Bangkok feels the impact

The earthquake was also felt in Bangkok, Thailand, where 10 people died. A 30-storey building under construction collapsed, trapping workers inside. Authorities fear up to 100 people may still be missing.

Tourists in Bangkok were caught off guard. «The ground started shaking as I stepped out of the lift. People were screaming, so I joined in and ran,» said a French tourist. Some visitors, however, decided to continue their trips. «I feel bad for what happened, but supporting local businesses is important,» said a traveller from Malta.

Massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake devastates Myanmar

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit central Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and leaving thousands injured or trapped. The disaster struck northwest of Sagaing, with aftershocks making rescue efforts even more difficult.

Inputs from TOI