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A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The tremor, followed by a strong 6.4 magnitude aftershock, resulted in at least 150 deaths in Myanmar and Thailand combined.
Buildings collapsed, bridges crumbled, and historic structures suffered extensive damage. Neighbouring Thailand also felt the impact, with an under-construction skyscraper collapsing in Bangkok, killing at least one person and trapping dozens.
Widespread Devastation in Myanmar
The earthquake’s epicentre was located near Mandalay, a city of 1.5 million people. Several towns and cities reported collapsed buildings, with state media confirming extensive damage to public infrastructure.
The historic Ava Bridge, a 90-year-old structure spanning the Irrawaddy River, was among the casualties. A railway bridge and sections of the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway also suffered significant destruction.
In Taungoo, at least three people were killed when a mosque partially collapsed. A hotel in Aung Ban crumbled, leaving two people dead and 20 injured. A tea shop in Mandalay Region also collapsed, trapping customers and workers inside.
Reports indicate that over 20 people have been killed across the country, but the numbers are expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
Thailand Hit by Aftershocks
The earthquake was felt strongly in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok. An under-construction skyscraper in the capital collapsed, trapping more than 80 workers under the rubble.
Officials confirmed three deaths in Thailand, while a large rescue operation is underway to save those still trapped. The Stock Exchange of Thailand suspended trading, and metro services were disrupted as a precaution.
Panic spread across the city, with residents and hotel guests rushing into the streets as water overflowed from an elevated pool at a luxury hotel.
Rescue Efforts and Rising Concerns
Myanmar’s ruling military junta declared a state of emergency in six regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay, and the capital Naypyitaw. With several bridges damaged, reaching affected areas has become a major challenge.
Thousands of internally displaced people are among those worst hit, and humanitarian agencies, including the Red Cross, have raised concerns over the condition of large dams and essential infrastructure.
The Red Cross confirmed severe damage to roads, bridges, and public buildings, warning of potential dangers if dam structures are compromised. The northwest region of Myanmar appears to be the most severely affected, with many areas still unreachable.
Regional Impact and International Response
The tremors were also felt in Bangladesh, particularly in Dhaka and Chattogram, though no casualties were reported. Parts of China’s Yunnan province, which borders Myanmar, also experienced strong shocks.
In India, mild tremors were recorded in Kolkata, Imphal, and Meghalaya’s East Garo Hills district, but no major damage or casualties were reported.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern over the disaster and assured India’s readiness to provide assistance to Myanmar and Thailand. He directed the Ministry of External Affairs to stay in touch with both governments to coordinate support.
