India has stepped up to assist Myanmar in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake that hit the country recently. A contingent of 80 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel is being sent to Myanmar to aid in relief and rescue efforts. The federal disaster contingency force will be deployed under ‘Operation Brahma’ with specialized earthquake rescue equipment such as strong concrete cutters, drill machines, and hammers to provide assistance to the affected areas.
The team of 80 NDRF personnel is being airlifted to Myanmar on two Indian Air Force sorties from Hindon in Ghaziabad. They are expected to reach the earthquake-affected region by Saturday evening. Commandant P K Tiwary of the 8th NDRF battalion based in Ghaziabad will lead the Urban Search And Rescue (USAR) team. The team is also bringing along rescue dogs for the collapsed structure search and rescue operation, following International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) guidelines.
The earthquake, which was felt in Myanmar and neighboring Thailand, caused extensive damage to buildings, bridges, and other structures. Reports indicate that at least 1,002 people lost their lives in Myanmar as a result of the earthquake. This is not the first time India has deployed NDRF personnel abroad for disaster relief. Similar missions were carried out during the 2015 Nepal earthquake and the 2023 Turkiye quake.
In addition to sending personnel, India has also dispatched 15 tonnes of relief material to Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city, on a C130J military transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his concern over the earthquake and reiterated India’s readiness to provide assistance to both Myanmar and Thailand. India shares a 1,643-km-long border with Myanmar on the eastern side, highlighting the close proximity and strong ties between the two countries.
This collaborative effort between India and Myanmar showcases the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis. The swift response and deployment of NDRF personnel demonstrate India’s commitment to assisting its neighbors in times of need. As the rescue and relief operations continue in Myanmar, the support from India will undoubtedly make a significant impact in helping the affected communities recover and rebuild.
