Yangon — Yasmin Praz Dessimoz, Director of Operations at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), stated that as Myanmar transitions from emergency relief to long-term recovery following the 7.9-magnitude earthquake, there is an urgent need for sustainable support in rebuilding housing infrastructure, restoring irrigation and electricity systems, and promoting economic recovery.

In an interview with China’s Xinhua News Agency, Yasmin emphasized that beyond immediate emergency response, long-term sustainable recovery is essential to help affected communities return to normal life. She highlighted ongoing challenges in quake-hit areas, including loss of livelihoods, damaged infrastructure, psychological trauma, and the heightened risk to shelters during the monsoon season.

Yasmin added that the ICRC plans to expand its livelihood programs and collaborate with local authorities and international partners. The focus will be on restoring living conditions, access to clean water and food, and public healthcare services. The ICRC will work closely with the Myanmar Red Cross Society and partners within the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, including the Red Cross Society of China, to deploy skilled personnel and experts to address both immediate and systemic issues in the affected regions.

As of Saturday (April 19), Myanmar’s State Administration Council reported that the powerful earthquake on March 28 had resulted in 3,726 deaths, 5,105 injuries, and 129 people still missing as of Friday (April 18).

Source:

Xinhuathai News