Desk:A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck Myanmar and Thailand on Friday, March 28, causing widespread devastation from Myanmar’s Sagaing region to Thailand’s capital, Bangkok. A subsequent aftershock of 7.0 magnitude worsened the situation. Rescue and relief operations are underway, but the scene remains grim, with collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and debris everywhere. Initial estimates suggest that the death toll could surpass 1,000, with thousands more injured. Reports indicate a severe shortage of blood in hospitals, making life-saving efforts even more challenging. The death toll in Myanmar has already crossed 150, and officials warn that it could rise further in the coming days.
Tremors in Thailand, 10 Dead in Bangkok
The tremors were also felt in neighboring Thailand. In Bangkok, a partially constructed high-rise building collapsed, killing at least 10 people, injuring 16, and leaving 101 missing.
Massive Devastation in Myanmar, Thousands Injured
Myanmar’s military chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, stated on national television that 144 people had been confirmed dead, with 730 injured. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has warned that the death toll could exceed 1,000. The earthquake’s epicenter was near Myanmar’s second-largest city, Mandalay, and was followed by several strong aftershocks, including one measuring 6.4. The earthquake caused severe damage to buildings, bridges, and roads in cities like Mandalay, Naypyidaw, and Yangon.
The historic Ava Bridge over the Irrawaddy River in Mandalay collapsed, cutting off a crucial transportation link. Naypyidaw’s streets cracked, and many buildings crumbled. Reports indicate that over 20 people died when a mosque collapsed, with many still trapped under the debris. Viral videos on social media show Buddhist temples and monasteries in Mandalay reduced to rubble. A local resident shared, “We were praying when the ground shook violently. Within seconds, everything turned to dust.” Hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, but the shortage of blood is hampering treatment. The Myanmar military has declared a state of emergency in six states.
Shortage of Food, Water, and Blood
The Myanmar government has urged people to donate blood, as hospitals face a critical shortage. The United Nations has released $5 million for emergency relief. With casualties rising, both Myanmar and Thailand’s hospitals are struggling to cope. More than 732 people have been injured in Myanmar, while hundreds are receiving treatment in Thailand. Volunteers and locals are stepping up to donate blood, but supplies remain insufficient. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured both countries of full support. An Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft, loaded with relief materials and a medical team, is ready for deployment. PM Modi tweeted, “Deeply concerned about the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for everyone’s safety. India is ready to provide all possible assistance.”
Rescue Operations Hampered, Bridges Collapse, Dam Bursts
Myanmar’s state-run newspaper, Global New Light of Myanmar, reported that five cities experienced significant destruction, with two major bridges collapsing. One of these bridges connected Mandalay to Yangon. A famous monastery in Mandalay was completely destroyed, with videos circulating online showing the Ma Soe Yane monastery crumbling to the ground. Christian Aid, a relief organization, reported that the earthquake also caused a dam to burst, leading to rising water levels in low-lying areas.
33-Story Building Collapses in Bangkok, People Trapped
Even though Bangkok is nearly 1,000 kilometers from the earthquake’s epicenter, the city experienced significant tremors. A 33-story under-construction high-rise collapsed, leaving 43 people missing. In total, 10 people lost their lives, 16 were injured, and 101 are reported missing. The disaster created panic in the city, with people running for safety. A viral video showed a massive cloud of dust as the building collapsed. Other footage revealed water spilling out of swimming pools and metro trains shaking due to the tremors.
Earthquake Tremors Felt in China, Several Injured
The impact of the Myanmar earthquake extended to China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces. In the border city of Ruili, several buildings suffered damage, and multiple people were reported injured.
Challenges in Rescue Operations, Fear Among Citizens
Ongoing civil war in Myanmar has already left the country in turmoil, and this disaster has worsened the situation. According to the United Nations, over three million people were already displaced before the earthquake, and nearly 20 million rely on humanitarian aid.
International rescue teams fear that it may take weeks to reach some remote areas. Mohammad Riyas, Myanmar Director of the International Rescue Committee, stated, “We have no idea of the true scale of this catastrophe yet.” The Myanmar government has confirmed that it will accept foreign aid. The U.S. has promised assistance, but concerns remain regarding how much help will be provided due to previous funding cuts by the Trump administration.