Bangkok: "Phumtham" has dispatched personnel and humanitarian supplies to assist Thai citizens and rescue workers affected by the Myanmar earthquake.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, led a ceremony marking the deployment of Royal Thai Armed Forces personnel to Myanmar. This initiative follows the devastating 8.2-magnitude earthquake on March 28, which heavily impacted regions such as Mandalay, Naypyidaw, and Yangon. The event was attended by key military officials including General Nattapol Nakwanich, Deputy Minister of Defense, Air Chief Marshal Panphakdi Phatthanakul, and General Manas Chandi. The operation is headed by Colonel Khajonsak Poonphothong, with the aim of bolstering humanitarian efforts and reinforcing ties between Thailand and Myanmar.
Mr. Phumtham addressed the troops, acknowledging the widespread impact of the earthquake and commending the rapid response of the military personnel. He emphasized the importance of the mission, highlighting the collaboration between nations in times of disaster. Nearly 1,000 troops have been deployed to support the efforts.
The Thai government has tasked the Royal Thai Army Headquarters with establishing the 'Myanmar Earthquake Assistance Unit in Naypyidaw City'. This unit operates under the guidance of the Operations Office, Department of Military Operations (DOE), and adheres to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) protocols.
The mission involves 55 personnel divided into various groups including Control, Public Relations, Search and Rescue (USAR), Emergency Medical Technician (MERT), Damage Assessment, Communication, Air Transport, and Coordination. Their primary objectives are to deliver humanitarian aid, conduct search and rescue operations, provide emergency medical services, and support communication efforts.
The operation is supported by three flights from the Air Force, with personnel rotating between Bangkok, Yangon, and Naypyidaw from March 30 to April 5, 2025. On the ground, teams will conduct search and rescue, offer medical services, and assess damage. They will also engage in public relations to ensure continuous communication with the public.
Thailand's commitment to assisting Myanmar in these challenging times underscores its dedication to humanitarian security and international relations. The Royal Thai Army has also mobilized resources domestically, organizing teams to distribute essential supplies and support mental health initiatives through activities like "Music in the Park" in Bangkok.