The powerful earthquake that struck Mandalay has claimed the lives of 104 people from monasteries and nunneries in the Sagaing Hills, according to Sitagu Buddhist University. The victims include 25 monks, 29 Tharmanay, and 50 nuns and 66 lay people.

The report lists deaths and burials across 57 monasteries and nunneries in the region. The hardest-hit was Shwe Hintha Taki Thit Monastery, where 18 people lost their lives—one monk, five Tharmanay, and 12 others.

At Yadanarthigai  Parahita Monastery, 16 people died, including one Tharmanay, one nun, and 14 others. Fourteen nuns perished at Thutaythakachaung  Monastery, eight monks and three Tharmanay died at Zinedaya Monastery, and six nuns were reported dead at Thakyadhita Monastery.

U Thadhamma, the abbot of Shwe Hintha Monastery, which experienced the highest number of casualties, stated that the monastery—established in 1298—suffered extensive damage. Out of over 40 monasteries, only a few remain standing: two single-story, two double-story, and four others. More than 30 monasteries were damaged, with seven completely destroyed and over 20 partially collapsed. The final death toll there reached 18, including one monk, five young Koyins, and 11 others and a woman hospitalized in April 5.

“We are currently clearing the debris and preparing to rebuild single-story buildings for the monks,” the Sayadaw said. “The living conditions are extremely difficult. There is no electricity or clean water. A saltwater well is available for bathing, but we need fuel to operate the water pump. Toilets are present, but water has to be carried manually.”

He added that while food and drink are sufficient for now, fear of aftershocks has made people hesitant to enter the remaining buildings. “If it rains, we urgently need durable temporary tents—about 20 tents—for shelter.”

Many displaced families have taken refuge in the heavily damaged new Shwe Hintha building as they wait for aid and reconstruction efforts to begin.