Devastating Earthquake Rocks Myanmar and Bangkok, Rescue Efforts Underway

Here’s a rewritten version of the news article, aiming for clarity and conciseness:

Devastating Earthquake Rocks Myanmar and Bangkok, Rescue Efforts Underway

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake has caused widespread devastation in Myanmar and impacted Bangkok, Thailand, triggering urgent search and rescue operations.

In Myanmar, the earthquake has resulted in approximately 1,700 confirmed deaths and 3,400 injuries, according to reports from the military leader. Hundreds remain missing, with rescue efforts concentrated in Mandalay and the capital, Nay Pyi Taw. International aid teams are on the ground, but damaged airports are hindering relief efforts.

In Bangkok, the collapse of an unfinished skyscraper has left 76 construction workers missing, and the death toll has reached 17.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has emphasized the urgent need for shelter, medical care, water, and sanitation for the affected populations in Myanmar, highlighting the increased vulnerability of those already facing conflict. The ongoing conflict between the military junta and various armed militia, which has displaced over three million people since the 2021 coup, is complicating aid delivery.

The National Unity Government, representing the ousted civilian administration, has called for a two-week ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid. However, reports indicate that the military regime continues airstrikes, even near the earthquake’s epicenter.

Tom Andrews, the UN Human Rights Council-appointed expert on Myanmar, has urged the junta to follow the opposition’s lead and implement an immediate ceasefire, suspend military conscription, and allow unobstructed aid delivery.

UN agencies, including UNFPA, UNICEF, WHO, and WFP, are actively involved in the relief efforts. UNFPA is focusing on the needs of women and girls, addressing compromised maternal healthcare and the heightened risk of gender-based violence. UNICEF has described the situation as a “catastrophe” for children, particularly in Mandalay, and is calling for urgent assistance. WHO has dispatched nearly three tonnes of medical supplies and launched an $8 million appeal for trauma care and disease prevention. WFP has begun distributing emergency food supplies, including high-energy biscuits, and is scaling up its assistance.