Thousands in Myanmar began the traditional Thingyan water festival on Sunday, but the celebration was subdued due to the recent devastating earthquake.
The festival, usually a time of joyous water rituals symbolising renewal, was overshadowed by the destruction in Mandalay and Sagaing, where a 7.7-magnitude earthquake last month claimed over 3,600 lives.
Two weeks after the disaster, survivors are still living in makeshift tent camps among the ruins of collapsed buildings, facing shortages of necessities like clean water and sanitation.
Residents are also concerned about upcoming heavy rains and their impact on their temporary shelters.
Despite their hardship, families continued some traditions, purchasing items for the new year. However, children were discouraged from participating in the usual water-splashing activities out of respect for the mourning.
The military junta, which controls Myanmar, also banned music and dancing during the five-day festival.
Survivors are enduring extreme heat during the day and mosquito-infested nights while struggling to access aid.
The earthquake destroyed over 5,200 buildings and affected over two million people, prompting the UN to issue an emergency appeal for $275 million. However, aid efforts are hampered by funding shortages, exacerbated by cuts to US aid.
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing civil war in Myanmar, which has worsened poverty and displacement.
Even as a ceasefire was announced, reports indicate continued military airstrikes and fighting between the junta and anti-coup forces. The UN has criticised the military’s actions, stating that humanitarian aid should be the priority.
