Search and rescue efforts in Mandalay City following a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake on 28 March 2025 had yet to begin effectively as of 31 March.

The earthquake caused widespread damage across Sagaing, Magway, Mandalay, Bago, and southern Shan State.

In Mandalay City a lot of the city has become a disaster zone. Thousands have been killed or injured in the earthquake, with the death toll rising daily. Despite this, effective, organised search and rescue efforts in many collapsed buildings have yet to begin and help is urgently needed, according to a Mandalay resident who spoke to Voice of Shan-Ni.

He said: “The Mahamuni Buddha Temple, one of the city’s iconic landmarks, and Mandalay Ananda Pagoda were badly damaged. Rescue teams are overwhelmed, and hundreds of collapsed buildings still haven't been searched. On top of that, the city is dealing with widespread power outages, and internet access is barely working.”

The sheer number of the injured has overwhelmed hospitals and clinics in Mandalay, creating an urgent need for doctors and medical professionals.

As of the evening of 31 March, the junta had reported at least 2,065 deaths and more than 3,900 injuries across Myanmar, with around 270 people still missing. The toll is expected to rise in the coming days, as many collapsed buildings in cities, towns, and villages remain unsearched.