Swift Action Following Myanmar's Earthquake: Mobilizing Support and Resources for Relief Efforts

In the wake of the catastrophic earthquake that struck Myanmar less than a week ago, the nation has faced overwhelming challenges. Tens of thousands of buildings have collapsed, and the death toll continues to rise as rescue operations struggle to keep pace with the devastation. Reports indicate that ongoing tremors are hindering rescue attempts, with the effects felt even in distant Bangkok, where a high-rise construction site suffered significant damage.

One of the disaster stricken site where our generator has been requested for.

The conditions on the ground are dire. Reports from various organizations underline the immense difficulty in conducting rescue and relief operations due to the ongoing civil war, economic sanctions, and a severe lack of essential resources. Many volunteers and workers are left to dig through rubble with their bare hands, desperately trying to save those trapped within the debris. This heartbreaking reality evokes a sense of helplessness and urgency among those watching from afar.

Recognizing the pressing need for assistance, our organization mobilized within 24 hours of the quake to provide support for rescue efforts. Initially, our plan was to send excavators to aid in the heavy lifting required for clearing debris. However, as the critical 72-hour window for effective rescue operations closed, we reevaluated our approach. We decided that portable generators would significantly enhance survival and recovery efforts, enabling hospitals to perform life-saving medical procedures that had been delayed due to power outages.

Together with one of the suppliers whom had also supported us with his warehouse for loading of the generators.

By rallying support from our community across the region, we quickly assembled a local team. Despite facing strong discouragement and the many risks involved, we made the decision to fly into Myanmar five days after the earthquake struck, armed with a singular mission: secure and deliver portable generators.

Over the last 48 hours of our time in Myanmar, we successfully procured 46 portable generators, and they were dispatched to the hardest-hit areas: Mandalay, Naypyidaw, and Sagain. These generators will be provided to general hospitals, medical centers, fire stations, and organizations that are currently housing victims who lost their homes due to the disaster.

The hope is that restoring power will allow these facilities to return to some semblance of normalcy and resume critical operations. Moreover, these generators will serve a long-term purpose beyond the immediate relief efforts; they can be utilized by schools and other institutions that experience ongoing power shortages.

As we continue to navigate this challenging landscape, we remain committed to transparency and accountability. Our team has received overwhelming support from over a hundred individuals and organizations who trust us to deliver much-needed humanitarian aid. Each contribution symbolizes a shared commitment to helping those affected by this tragedy, and we are deeply grateful for it.

In times of crisis, collective action demonstrates our strength. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those impacted by the earthquake in Myanmar. As we press forward with our relief efforts, we remain focused on the mission: providing essential support and restoring hope.

Lastly, we would like to thank all our contributors for making this possible, with special thanks to the following ground and coordinating personnel for smooth operation under such challenging circumstances.

List of Contributors to our Disaster Relief effort: Operation Power Up

• Miss Aye Mu Mu Kyaw Cindy

• Dr Htet Aung

• Dr Zin Cho Htay

• Mr U Rthar Kyaw

• Dr Nyan Win

• Mr U Inn Yar

• Dr Lucy Yow

• Mr Sit Thaway Aung

• Venerable Snow Sayalay

• Mr Victor Lim

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