“Armed conflicts have been raging in the Sagaing region for the past two years. The government controls the cities and the surrounding villages. Remote areas are controlled by other forces.” “We find spiritual consolation in the plea made by Pope Leo XIV last Sunday at the Angelus prayer. However, implementing the “path of inclusive dialogue” requires an honest commitment on the part of everyone involved, especially those with the most power. The term “inclusive” refers to the numerous divisions between different forces or groups.” A voice from the Archdiocese of Mandalay, who wished to remain anonymous, commented to SIR on Pope Leo’s words and on the current situation in the Mandalay region, which comprises the areas of Sagaing and Magway, heavily impacted by the ongoing conflicts and the earthquake that struck on 28 March. People’s lives are being devastated by the war amidst the rubble left by the earthquake, which had its epicentre here. “The local inhabitants of these regions – the local source told SIR – are always following the latest news reports for their own safety. Children can go to school, but only when it is safe. There are no hospitals, only a few clinics and dispensaries operating for limited hours. Young people who are not trying to leave the country are taking up arms.”
The most pressing and immediate humanitarian challenges at present are health and safety concerns, including the provision of healthcare for the elderly, children and expectant mothers, in addition to ensuring safe shelter for all population groups.
The local Church has decided to open the doors of church buildings and convents to offer shelter to those in need. Church buildings continue to offer refuge to earthquake survivors. Temporary tents have been set up on the grounds of St Michael’s Church in Mandalay. Priests and clergy are also sleeping outside their places of residence. Beds have been set up for priests and lay staff in the Archbishop’s residence.
“Priests and clergy offer consolation and prayer to those in need. Not only Catholics turn to us for support, but people of other faiths too.”
“Some of us – SIR is told from the archdiocese – are distributing humanitarian aid to earthquake survivors. Others are supervising the repair of damaged church buildings. Still others are in charge of the emergency rescue team.” All activities are carried out with the permission of local authorities and religious leaders.
Life goes on amidst almost daily aftershocks and persistent rain. As of 15 May, 174 aftershocks had been recorded, with subsequent tremors measuring between 3.0 and 5.5 on the Richter scale detected in Nay Pyi Taw, Mandalay, Sagaing and Shan State. In addition to the ongoing seismic activity, Mandalay has suffered more than three weeks of heavy rain and storms. The combination of persistent rain and aftershocks has caused several buildings, already weakened by the earthquake, to collapse, further exacerbating the hardship experienced by affected communities. On 17 May, a father and son sheltering in an earthquake relief camp in Mandalay lost their lives when a tree fell onto their tent.
Many people are still sleeping outdoors or in makeshift shelters. The recent earthquake has damaged or destroyed many homes, leaving families without shelter and forcing them to sleep outdoors for safety reasons. Across Mandalay and the surrounding area, residents are using tarpaulins, tents and bamboo structures to protect themselves from the harsh weather conditions. Access to clean water, sanitation and basic necessities remains limited, and local relief teams are struggling to address the urgent needs of the affected communities. The arrival of the monsoon season is also a cause for concern, as it is likely to exacerbate the situation for earthquake victims even further. Their makeshift shelters, often made of tarpaulins or bamboo, will not withstand heavy rain and strong winds.
“We are concerned that flooding and unsanitary conditions will increase the risk of waterborne diseases, particularly among children and the elderly,” writes the Archdiocese of Mandalay.
In the absence of urgent intervention to supply sturdier shelters and better sanitation, their safety and health is bound to face a serious threat during the monsoon season.
