VARIOUS organizations are working closely with local com­munities to undertake vigorous recovery efforts in areas affect­ed by the recent powerful earth­quake that struck Mandalay.

Yesterday, Sagaing Region Chief Minister U Myat Kyaw, along with Lt-Gen Thet Pon from the Office of the Command­er-in-Chief (Army) and other offi­cials, visited Sagaing University of Education in Patamya Ward, Sagaing. There, they observed students preparing to re-take Grade 12 exams at temporary learning camps. They inspected the arrangements being made for the reopening of damaged schools before the start of the school year and coordinated with the responsible officials to address any remaining needs.

Later, the chief minister, the Lt-Gen, and accompanying officials inspected the damage caused by the earthquake in Sagaing, including pagodas, re­ligious buildings, monasteries, nunneries, and residential struc­tures. They monitored the clear­ance of debris using heavy ma­chinery, working swiftly before the monsoon rains. The team also inspected the supply of clean water to the public through Tat­madaw water purification units and healthcare services being provided by mobile military med­ical teams, addressing any addi­tional requirements as needed.

Similarly, Lt-Gen Myo Moe Aung from the Office of the Com­mander-in-Chief (Army) and officials visited Chanayethazan Township, Mandalay. They re­viewed operations for the demo­lition and clearance of hazardous buildings damaged by the earth­quake, as well as preparations for further demolition work and the use of heavy machinery to safely remove hazardous structures. Efforts were also in place to keep major roads open to ensure pub­lic access and safety.

They also inspected earth­quake-damaged religious build­ings in Aungmyaythazan Town­ship. Donations were made to the presiding monks, and coor­dination took place to support the reconstruction process as needed.

Likewise, Lt-Gen Soe Tint Naing from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief (Army) and responsible officials visited Chan­myathazi Township. There, Tat­madaw personnel were actively clearing debris from damaged pagodas and religious buildings using heavy machinery. Excavat­ed ancient artefacts were being systematically preserved. The team provided necessary sup­port and made donations to the presiding monks.

Following this, they visited the No 7 Basic Education High School in Thampawaddy Ward, Chanmyathazi Township, where they observed ongoing debris clearance efforts. They listened to briefings by responsible offi­cials and provided guidance and support for the rebuilding pro­cess. The delegation also includ­ed students who were studying at the Pinya Hall of the school and offered words of encouragement and moral support.

Similarly, Lt-Gen Myo Thant Naing and officials visited Sugon and Kyetminton Wards in Kyauk­se, where earthquake damage had affected housing for the dis­trict and township agricultural staff, as well as the township elec­tricity office in Sugon Ward. They inspected the damage and col­laborated with local authorities to address outstanding needs.

At the People’s General Hospital in Sugon Ward, they observed the ongoing adminis­tration of COVID-19 vaccinations to residents and civil servants. In Sugyi Ward in Kyaukse, they monitored the installation of steel cables for transporting materials needed for the maintenance of the Kyaukthitta pagoda. They also reviewed the restoration efforts underway across the township, including repairs to pagodas, religious buildings, and residential structures damaged by the earthquake.

Finally, they visited sites where cement, iron rods, and wooden planks were being sold at special discounted prices by local factories to support recon­struction efforts. The delega­tion inspected the supply and distribution of these materials and coordinated with responsi­ble personnel to ensure that all necessary assistance was being provided. — MNA/MKKS