China and Hong Kong rescue teams conduct joint SAR mission in Myanmar

Search and rescue teams from China and Hong Kong worked together in Myanmar after a devastating earthquake.

Members of the China Search and Rescue Team search for survivors in the collapsed Sky Villa condominium, one of the most affected sites of the earthquake, on April 1, 2025, in Mandalay, Myanmar. Photo by Chen Yongnuo/VCG

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

A search and rescue (SAR) team from mainland China and a rescue team from Hong Kong conducted a joint operation at the Sky Villa residential building in Mandalay, Myanmar, following a devastating earthquake on April 1. The teams worked together using advanced rescue technology to locate possible survivors trapped under the rubble.

The China-Hong Kong joint rescue effort highlights the coordinated response between the two regions in disaster relief operations. The teams deployed specialized equipment, including snake-eye endoscopes, wide-angle radar cameras, and drones, to scan the debris and assess structural stability. The Ministry of Emergency Management of China confirmed that drones were used to ensure safety before sending personnel into the collapsed areas.

Advanced equipment used in search operations

The joint SAR mission utilized high-tech tools to enhance the efficiency of rescue efforts. Among the equipment used:

Snake-eye endoscopes: These flexible cameras allowed rescuers to search through small crevices for signs of life.
Wide-angle radar cameras: These devices provided an expansive view of the disaster site, detecting movements under the debris.
Drones: Equipped with thermal imaging and sensors, drones helped survey the structural integrity of the collapsed buildings before rescue teams entered.

These tools played a crucial role in mapping out the affected area and ensuring the safety of rescue workers as they navigated the unstable wreckage.

Search efforts guided by local residents' reports

Local residents played a key role in the China-Hong Kong SAR mission by providing reports of calls for help heard from within the collapsed structures. These reports prompted the rescue teams to rush to specific locations in an effort to locate possible survivors trapped under the debris.

Emergency workers carefully examined the indicated areas, using life detection equipment to verify if any individuals were still alive. However, despite their efforts, the teams found no signs of survivors in the identified locations.

Coordination of the China-Hong Kong SAR teams

A total of 24 personnel participated in the joint China-Hong Kong rescue operation. These highly trained professionals worked closely together, ensuring a seamless and efficient response to the disaster. Their combined expertise in structural assessment, emergency response, and medical aid contributed to a well-organized effort.

The Chinese SAR team specialized in heavy equipment operations, utilizing advanced machinery to clear debris and open pathways for search teams. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong rescue unit focused on medical support and victim extraction techniques, ensuring that any found survivors would receive immediate treatment.

The impact of the Myanmar earthquake

The earthquake that struck Mandalay, Myanmar, caused widespread devastation, with buildings reduced to rubble and roads severely damaged. Sky Villa, one of the worst-hit residential buildings, became the focal point of the China-Hong Kong SAR operation.

The disaster left residents in a state of shock, as emergency services scrambled to assess the scale of destruction. Many families anxiously awaited news about their loved ones, hoping that rescue teams would find survivors. The joint rescue mission brought a sense of urgency and professionalism to the response efforts.

China’s ongoing disaster relief efforts

China has been actively involved in international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations, providing rapid response teams to neighboring countries affected by natural disasters. The China-Hong Kong SAR collaboration in Myanmar reflects the country’s commitment to regional disaster management and emergency response cooperation.

Over the years, China has strengthened its SAR capabilities, investing in cutting-edge technology and specialized training programs for its rescue personnel. The use of drones, thermal imaging cameras, and robotic rescue devices has significantly improved the effectiveness of China’s emergency response teams.

The road ahead for Myanmar's recovery

While the joint SAR operation between China and Hong Kong has ended, Myanmar faces a long road to recovery. The earthquake left hundreds of people displaced, and the rebuilding process will require significant international assistance.

Humanitarian organizations and relief agencies have already begun mobilizing resources to provide food, water, and medical aid to affected communities. Reconstruction efforts will focus on rebuilding critical infrastructure, including homes, schools, and hospitals.

The China-Hong Kong rescue teams demonstrated the importance of cross-border collaboration in times of crisis. Their swift response and use of advanced rescue technology provided critical support to Myanmar in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.

As Myanmar continues its recovery, the international community will play a crucial role in supporting long-term rebuilding efforts and strengthening disaster resilience in the region.