Operation Brahma: India Sends Urgent Humanitarian Aid to Myanmar After Devastating Earthquake

On Saturday, as a part of a humanitarian response, India launched Operation Brahma to assist Myanmar in the wake of a devastating earthquake that struck the country on March 28. The earthquake, which also impacted parts of Thailand, has caused massive destruction, leaving over 1,002 people dead and nearly 2,400 injured in Myanmar alone.

India Launches Operation Brahma to Help Myanmar

On March 29, a C-130J aircraft of the Indian Air Force landed in Yangon, Myanmar, carrying approximately 15 tonnes of relief material. The aid package includes essential supplies such as tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, generators, kitchen sets and essential medicines.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar confirmed the dispatch of the first tranche of humanitarian aid on X (formerly Twitter), stating:

"India dispatches the first tranche of urgent humanitarian aid for the people of Myanmar. C-130 is carrying blankets, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, sleeping bags, solar lamps, food packets, and kitchen sets. A search & rescue team and medical team are also accompanying this flight. We will continue to monitor developments, and more aid will follow."

The Indian Embassy in Myanmar also shared an update, emphasising the country's commitment to providing swift assistance. In a tweet, the embassy stated: "Following today's devastating earthquake, we are coordinating speedy delivery of assistance & relief supplies from India with Myanmar authorities. We are also in constant touch with the Indian community. Reiterate our emergency number for needy Indian nationals: [phone]."

Myanmar Earthquake: Devastation and Impact

As per reports, the earthquake struck Sagaing, a region located near Mandalay in Myanmar, with a magnitude of 6.4, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremors were also felt as far as Thailand, southwest China, and India.

Casualties and Damage

According to a report by the BBC, the earthquake has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. At least 1,002 people have died in Myanmar, with nearly 2,400 injured. In Thailand, at least 10 fatalities have been confirmed, while buildings in Bangkok suffered structural damage. Roads have buckled in Myanmar's capital, Nay Pyi Taw, and critical infrastructure across the country has sustained heavy damage. Additionally, in Bangkok, a partially constructed high-rise building collapsed, leaving six workers dead and nearly 100 unaccounted for.

People on Twitter are sharing the horrific videos of devastation where buildings are collapsing like Legos and people are stranded on the street. A Twitter user shared footage which captures the moment buildings shook violently during the tremors.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has assured that India will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide additional aid as needed. More relief consignments and specialised assistance, including medical teams and search & rescue personnel, may be sent in the coming days.