Myanmar accepts more US help for cyclone survivors

The operation has already been named -Joint Task Force Caring Relief. But officials say they will not push ahead without the approval of Myanmar's military rulers.

Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej plans to go to Myanmar on Wednesday to meet with junta officials and urge them to issue more visas to foreign experts, Thai Foreign Minister Noppadon Patama told reporters.

The first U.N. aid convoy to reach Myanmar overland arrived Monday evening from Thailand with more than 20 tons of tents and plastic sheets.

Andrew Kirkwood of Save the Children, in a conference call with reporters, lauded Myanmar's private sector for "picking up a lot of the slack" by selling aid groups clothing, materials for shelter and other relief supplies at cost price.

Yangon was pounded by heavy rain Monday and more downpours were expected throughout the week, further hindering aid deliveries. But for many, the rainwater was the only source of clean drinking water.

Britain's opposition Conservative Party leader David Cameron, meanwhile, called for airdropping aid into Myanmar even without the junta's approval.

"The sands of time are running out," he told BBC Radio.

The idea, supported by some other prominent personalities, has been dismissed by the U.S.

Horsey, the U.N. spokesman, said such a move poses both "political" and "practical" challenges.