Massive Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand, Death Toll Surpasses 1,600
Mumbai: A powerful earthquake struck Myanmar and parts of neighboring Thailand on Friday, leaving widespread destruction and a mounting death toll. By Saturday evening, the number of fatalities had climbed to over 1,600, with Myanmar alone accounting for 1,644 deaths.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, at 12:50 pm local time (0650 GMT) at a shallow depth of 10 km. It was followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock and a series of smaller tremors. The quake’s effects were felt across the region, shaking buildings in India, China, Cambodia, and Laos.
Devastation Across Myanmar and Thailand
Myanmar’s military junta confirmed that more than 1,000 people had perished in the disaster, with the death toll expected to rise as rescue efforts continue. The country’s ongoing civil war has weakened emergency services, making disaster response efforts particularly challenging. In Mandalay, buildings crumbled into heaps of rubble, and the historic Ava Bridge spanning the Irrawaddy River collapsed into the water.
In neighboring Thailand, at least 10 people were reported dead, mainly due to the collapse of a high-rise under construction near Bangkok’s Chatuchak market. Authorities fear up to 100 workers may still be trapped under the debris. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held an emergency meeting to assess the damage and coordinate relief efforts.
International Aid and Relief Efforts
Myanmar’s military government made a rare appeal for international aid, with junta chief Min Aung Hlaing seeking assistance from “any country, any organization.” India was among the first to respond, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing concern and pledging support. “India stands ready to offer all possible assistance,” he stated.
Under ‘Operation Brahma,’ the Indian Air Force dispatched 15 tonnes of relief supplies, including tents, blankets, water purifiers, and essential medicines, from its Hindon air base. Additionally, 80 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel were deployed to Myanmar to assist in search and rescue operations.
The European Union and the United States also pledged support. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that Washington had been in contact with Myanmar’s authorities. “It’s a real bad one, and we will be helping,” he told reporters.
Ongoing Rescue Operations
Rescue workers, local residents, and international aid teams continue efforts to locate survivors and provide emergency assistance. Myanmar’s infrastructure has suffered extensive damage, further complicating relief efforts. The Indian embassy in Thailand reported no casualties among Indian nationals but advised caution as aftershocks continue to pose risks.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of the disaster, global humanitarian aid is expected to play a crucial role in mitigating the impact and assisting affected communities.
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