Tatmadaw members, Myanmar Police Force members, firefighters, international rescue teams, departmental staff, civil society organizations and locals are carrying out urgent rescue and relief missions in areas where roads, bridges and buildings were damaged following the powerful earthquake that recently struck central Myanmar.

Lt-Gen Myo Thant Naing and officials from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief (Army) visited several schools in Kyaukse, including the Government Technological High School (Kyaukse), No 3 Basic Education High School and No 1 Basic Education High School yesterday.

During the inspection, Lt-Gen Myo Thant Naing coordinated with local authorities to ensure that school buildings are adequate for the expected number of students in the coming academic year. He also gave instructions to expedite the repair of damaged school facilities, ensure the safety and accommodation of staff and provide sufficient food and water.

He also inspected damaged and dangerous buildings on Padamya Road in Nyaung Chaukpin Ward, Kyaukse and coordinated necessary actions for safety.

Later, a coordination meeting with departmental officials was held at the Kyaukse District General Administration Department Office. During the meeting, officials discussed the need to allow reconstruction only for buildings that can withstand up to magnitude 8 on the Richter scale, as per international standards and regulations. They also emphasised the need for pre-drafted standard operation procedures to be followed when approving construction and called for thorough inspections during the rebuilding process.

As the monsoon season is approaching, authorities were instructed to prepare sufficient medicines to prevent potential outbreaks of diarrhoea and dysentery among those living in temporary shelters. Rescue equipment, medical supplies and emergency response teams were also advised to be kept in full readiness in case of future natural disasters.

MNA/KZL

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