Chinese rescue teams equipped with advanced technology are racing against time to save lives in central Myanmar after a devastating magnitude-7.9 earthquake struck last Friday.
The death toll has climbed to 2,886, with 4,639 injured and 373 still missing, according to Myanmar’s State Administration Council information team as of Wednesday.
At the severely damaged Sky Villa apartment complex in Mandalay City, a search and rescue team from China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is utilizing drones to survey the unstable debris from above, while deploying life detectors to locate trapped individuals beneath the rubble.
“Our 51-member team brought a diverse range of rescue tools to Myanmar, including concrete breakers, cutting equipment, infrared displacement detectors, life detectors, and drones,” said Jiu Yu-gok, commander of the HKSAR rescue team. “By collaborating with the China International Search and Rescue Team (CISAR) and sharing resources, we aim to save as many survivors as possible.”
Meanwhile, CISAR is deploying snake-eye life detectors that provide visual confirmation and detect auditory cues deep within the collapsed structures. Using this technology, the team successfully pulled out three survivors from the collapsed Sky Villa on Monday.
“We drilled holes into the debris and used an endoscope and a snake-eye life detector to scan inside, adjusting positions until we determined the survivor’s location,” explained Bi Hongyi, squad leader of CISAR. “The device also transmitted real-time video, giving us a clear view of their condition.”
The rescue efforts have been significantly enhanced by the deployment of an earthquake response vehicle loaded with 369 specialized tools. This all-in-one vehicle integrates power supply, lighting, leak detection systems, and functions for detection, search, medical aid, and logistics.
“This vehicle drastically reduces equipment switchover time, boosting operational efficiency,” said Han Zhenze, captain of CISAR. “It allows us to penetrate deeper into disaster zones without manual gear hauling, making on-site rescues far more effective.”
As rescue teams continue to work around the clock, hopes remain high for finding more survivors amid the devastation. The advanced equipment and dedicated efforts of the Chinese teams are providing crucial support to Myanmar during this critical time.
