Earthquake Update: Myanmar Declares State of Emergency After Devastating 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake; 20 Dead

Earthquake Updates: Myanmar has declared a state of emergency after the central part of the country was hit by a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar near Mandalay around midday on Friday, causing widespread devastation across the region and neighbouring countries, including Bangladesh, India, Laos, Thailand, and China.
Earthquake in Myanmar

The epicentre of the earthquake was near Mandalay, which is Myanmar's second-largest city, leading to significant destruction. Historic sites, including temples in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bagan, suffered extensive damage, as per reports. Casualties are reported to be in the hundreds, with hospitals in Mandalay, Sagaing, and Naypyitaw overwhelmed by the influx of injured individuals. The Myanmar government has declared a state of emergency in six regions and is urgently appealing for international aid to support rescue and relief operations.

As per the ET report, "Around 20 people have lost their lives at a major hospital in Myanmar's capital, Naypyidaw. A doctor from the 1,000-bed general hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, "So far, about 20 people have died after arriving at our hospital. Many others have sustained injuries."

Earthquake Effects Felt in Thailand

The quake's tremors extended to Bangkok, Thailand, resulting in the collapse of several high-rise buildings under construction. At least three fatalities have been confirmed, with 90 individuals reported missing and seven rescued from the debris. The Thai government has declared Bangkok a disaster area, initiating extensive rescue efforts to locate and assist those trapped. As per local reports, the tremors trapped 81 people, with 90 reported missing and three confirmed dead.
People are sharing videos of the devastation online. One user shares a video of a building collapsing and wrote, "Collapsed Building in Bangkok Identified. The construction project that collapsed due to the earthquake is the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) building in Bangkok, Thailand."

Other Countries Feel The Tremor

The earthquake's impact was felt beyond Myanmar and Thailand. In China, the provinces of Yunnan and Sichuan experienced property damage and injuries. Light tremors were experienced in the eastern part of India, including Kolkata and Imphal; however, no confirmed reports of damage or casualties have surfaced till now.
A user on X posted, "This is truly heartbreaking. A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake has struck #Myanmar, causing massive destruction. Rescue efforts are underway, and many people are still trapped under the rubble. Let's all pray for their safety and well-being."

International Response

Global communities have expressed solidarity with the affected nations. Offers of assistance are pouring in, aiming to support rescue missions and provide humanitarian aid to the victims of this devastating earthquake.

PM Narendra Modi expressed his concern and sent a heartfelt message to people stuck in Myanmar. "Concerned by the situation in the wake of the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, we asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the governments of Myanmar and Thailand.