Myanmar quake: SMART recovers four bodies from rubble

KUALA LUMPUR: The Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) has recovered four bodies from the rubble caused by the earthquake in Myanmar’s Sagaing region.

In a statement, the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) reported that two victims – a man and a woman – were retrieved on Monday (March 31), while the bodies of two female victims were recovered on Tuesday.

“The search and rescue operations are being carried out jointly with local rescue teams. Despite the extreme heat, the mission to save disaster victims remains our top priority,” Nadma said.

Tuesday marks the third day of deployment for SMART’s search and rescue (SAR) mission in Myanmar. It is currently the only foreign SAR team operating in Sagaing.

According to Nadma, Myanmar’s Department of Disaster Management has confirmed that the earthquake has killed 1,659 people and injured 3,535, while 284 were reported missing.

The safety of the 50 SMART personnel deployed in Sagaing remains a top priority it said, especially amid reports of ongoing airstrikes by the Myanmar military in conflict areas and the risk of landmines, particularly around temples.

“At present, the on-ground security risk is minimal, and the team’s safety is continuously monitored by the Local Emergency Management Authorities and the Myanmar police,” Nadma stated.

However, the team continues to face challenges, including aftershocks, which pose a potential hazard for its personnel working under collapsed structures.

“Concerns include ensuring a steady supply of drinking water and fuel to sustain operations.

“Hygiene issues must also be given priority, especially after handling bodies. Team members undergo decontamination after each operation, and adequate water supply is available for washing clothing,” Nadma added.

Last Friday, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, with Mandalay, Bago, Magway, northeastern Shan State, Sagaing, and Naypyidaw being among the worst-affected areas. The tremors also impacted neighbouring Thailand.

On Sunday, two air force A400M aircraft carrying SMART personnel landed at Naypyidaw International Airport. The team then travelled 270km overland to Sagaing to begin their SAR operations. – Bernama