Myanmar soon to be prepared for quakes

 December 15, 2017

A ceremony to introduce the National Level Preparedness and Response to Earthquake Project was held yesterday morning at Thingaha Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw.

At the meeting, the Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, Dr. Win Myat Aye delivered an opening speech, saying that the effect of climate change is seen increasing every day. Myanmar was faced with natural disasters in 2015 and 2016, and incurred much damage and losses. In addition to threats from natural disasters due to its geographical location, the danger of earthquakes and tsunamis should not be forgotten. Myanmar is located on the Alpine fault line, which runs from the extreme northern portion of the country to the Bay of Moattama in the south. Most of the country’s regions sit along the earthquake fault lines and, according to seismologists and geologists, the danger of earthquakes exists all along the fault lines.

“People living in the coastal area of Myanmar also need to be aware of the danger of tsunamis, which could occur, along with an earthquake. It is still difficult to predict the magnitude of an earthquake and how much damage it could cause. Physical damages can be seen, but other damage to health, education and cultural heritages need to be included and considered, as well. We have had experiences in these, and from those experiences we need to discuss in this meeting how to prepare for natural disasters. All are urged to participate in the discussion,” said the Union Minister.

Also, speeches were delivered by the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) Technical Expert, Clementia Cantoni, and United Nations Development Programme Deputy Country Director, Dawn Del Rio.

Additionally, the project for preparedness and response to earthquakes was explained, a video record of the 2010 Haiti earthquake was shown, disaster management law and rules were briefly reviewed and there was an explanation about the work committee on natural disasters.

The responsibilities of each committee following a natural disaster was then discussed in groups, and the outcome of the group discussions were reviewed.

Myanmar News Agency

Ref; The Global New Light of Myanmar