UNION Minister for Information U Maung Maung Ohn inspected the damages caused by the earthquake at MRTV in Tatkon of Nay Pyi Taw yesterday and also met the staff and their families.
The Union minister first inspected the damage at Block C of the main building of MRTV, including shattered glass panels, collapsed ceiling, cracks in the walls, and damage to the walls in the Waiting Room.
During the meeting with the staff at the Auditorium Hall, the video clip featuring the record of search and rescue works and rehabilitation processes after the powerful earthquake was played.
The Union minister and staff then bowed their heads for one minute in silence with deep sympathy and understanding for the loss of lives and destruction caused by the devastating earthquake and a siren was sounded as a tribute to mourning as part of the national day of mourning.
Speaking at the meeting, the Union minister talked about his visit to inspect the damages and comfort the staff. It was a relief that only one female staff member sustained minor injuries (not in serious condition) and that no other injuries were reported. The Union minister also acknowledged and appreciated the uninterrupted broadcasting, as there was no disruption to transmission, thanks to the efforts of the staff in maintaining operations. He emphasized the need for timely news reporting, documentation, and updates regarding the affected areas, the incidents, search and rescue efforts, as well as cleanup and reconstruction activities.
Due to the powerful earthquake, as of today, there have been 3,145 deaths, 4,589 injuries, and 221 missing. The ancient pagodas, buildings, railway tracks and roads were seriously destroyed. The country has successfully overcome challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Cyclone Mocha, and Typhoon Yagi through the collaborative efforts of the government and the people. Moreover, the country was able to recover swiftly and even surpass previous conditions.
In response to this recent earthquake, lessons will be learned, and with unity and determination, all will overcome this challenge as well. As climate change continues to affect the world, it is crucial for all sectors to work together to protect the planet.
Both the domestic and international organizations are working together, sacrificing their lives to rescue the people. Being affected by the earthquake, MRTV has been able to continue broadcasting news and programmes without interruption. Efforts must be made to maintain uninterrupted transmissions, ensuring that both the domestic audience and the international community stay informed about the country’s critical events.
He then urged the staff to continue their duties with a strong sense of responsibility and commitment.
Afterwards, the Union minister presented foodstuffs worth over K10 million for MRTV staff, members of Tatmadaw and the Police Force, who are carrying out security measures, to Director-General U Ye Naing.
He also offered comfort to local staff at the Block C Lobby and gave them foodstuffs. He then inspected the damages in the MRTV compound.
He cordially met with 30 staff families who took shelter at MRTV Recreation Centre from staff housing, and he presented foodstuffs and cash assistance to them.
Moreover, he proceeded to staff officer housing No 18 and staff housing No 23 and met the staff and their families. He presented foodstuffs and cash to them.
He also went to water tanks for the staff and instructed officials not to cause water shortages. He presented foodstuffs to Tatmadaw members, the Myanmar Police Force and security staff who serve security measures at MRTV.
The powerful earthquake that struck on 28 March caused no damage to the transmission tower, satellite communication systems, air-conditioning systems, or studios at MRTV in Nay Pyi Taw-Tatkon. However, the main building, the Diamond Jubilee Museum, and staff housing sustained damages such as shattered glass panels, collapsed ceilings, and cracked walls. Moreover, TVs, computers, and equipment in the broadcasting control room and other related materials were damaged. Despite this, broadcasting operations have continued uninterrupted, thanks to repairs and replacements.
MNA/KTZH
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