The Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC) has issued an invitation stating that people affected by a powerful earthquake, which struck with a magnitude of 7.7 on the Richter scale on 28 March, centered in Sagaing town in central Myanmar, can seek refuge in Karenni (Kayah) State.
In a statement released on 29 March, the IEC announced that it would collaborate with groups within Karenni State to support and assist those who have suffered losses and damage due to the quake.
IEC Secretary-2 U Banya said: “Based on humanitarian compassion, we are offering refuge in our state. Those who come to stay must inform the two relevant departments before entering and residing here.”
U Banya further stated that humanitarian assistance would also be provided to earthquake-affected individuals seeking refuge in Karenni State.
The IEC has simultaneously called on international governments and organizations to provide humanitarian aid to those affected by the quake.
In the Inle region and Pinlaung Township in southern Shan State, which borders Karenni State, more than 90 people have died and over 2,500 homes have been destroyed due to the powerful earthquake on 28 March, according to a statement released by the Pa-O Youth Organization (PYO) on 30 March.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake caused severe damage in Mandalay Region, Sagaing Region, Naypyidaw Council Territory, Shan State, Bago Region, and Magway Region, with the military junta declaring a state of emergency in the six affected regions.
Across Myanmar, more than 2,970 residential structures, nearly 100 pagodas, and over 50 mosques were damaged due to the earthquake, according to a statement from the National Unity Government (NUG) on 29 March.
As of the evening of 31 March, the death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck on 28 March had reached 2,418, with many still missing, according to a statement from the NUG on 31 March.
Sent by Kantarawaddy Times
