Chinese rescue teams deploy advanced equipment in Myanmar quake search

Chinese rescue teams with advanced search and rescue tools have been racing against time to save lives in central Myanmar following the devastating magnitude-7.9 earthquake that struck on Friday.

The death toll has risen to 2,886, with 4,639 injured and 373 still missing, according to Myanmar's State Administration Council information team on Wednesday.

At the severely damaged Sky Villa apartment in Mandalay City, the search and rescue team from China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) operated drones to survey the shifting debris from above and life detectors to scan for trapped individuals.

"Our 51-member team brought diverse rescue tools to Myanmar, including concrete breakers, cutting equipment, infrared displacement detectors, life detectors, and drones. By collaborating with the China Search and Rescue Team and sharing resources, we aim to save as many survivors as possible," said Jiu Yu-gok, commander of the HK rescue team.

At the same site, the China International Search and Rescue Team (CISAR) deployed snake-eye life detectors that provide visual confirmation and detect auditory cues. The team pulled out three survivors from the collapsed Sky Villa on Monday, thanks to the device.

⁠⁠"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. The device also transmitted real-time video, giving us a clear view of their condition," said Bi Hongyi, squad leader of CISAR.

The search and rescue team mobilized its earthquake response vehicle to Mandalay with 369 specialized tools to save lives.

This all-in-one vehicle integrates power supply, lighting, leak detection systems, and detection, search, medical aid, and logistics functions.

"This vehicle drastically reduces equipment switchover time, boosting operational efficiency. It allows us to penetrate deeper into disaster zones without manual gear hauling, making on-site rescues far more effective," said Han Zhenze, CISAR captain.