Devastating Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand
A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocked Southeast Asia on March 28, 2025, causing catastrophic damage and loss of life in Myanmar and Thailand. With its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar, and a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, the quake triggered widespread destruction, prompting emergency declarations and urgent rescue operations.
Myanmar Suffers Heavy Losses
Myanmar was the hardest hit, with over 1,000 fatalities and more than 2,300 injuries reported. Buildings crumbled across Mandalay and the Sagaing region, including historical structures and densely populated residential zones. The impact overwhelmed emergency services, forcing the military-led government to declare a state of emergency and appeal for international assistance. The already strained infrastructure due to ongoing internal conflict has further hampered relief efforts.
Bangkok in Crisis as Building Collapses
Thailand reported at least 10 deaths and dozens of injuries, with structural damage in eight provinces. In Bangkok, a 30-story building under construction collapsed in the Chatuchak district, resulting in multiple fatalities and leaving several workers trapped. Emergency services are racing against time to rescue survivors. Authorities in the capital have declared an emergency, suspended public transportation, and evacuated high-rise buildings as aftershocks continued.
Regional Shockwaves and Wider Impact
The tremors extended beyond Myanmar and Thailand:
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In China, damage was reported in the Yunnan province, with minor injuries.
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In Bangladesh, cities such as Dhaka experienced shaking, causing mass evacuations though no major damage was reported.
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In India, tremors were felt across the northeast and the Delhi-NCR region, prompting precautionary evacuations in several buildings.
International Response Mobilized
The global response has been swift. Several nations have pledged humanitarian support, dispatched search-and-rescue teams, and offered financial aid to assist in recovery efforts. Relief agencies are coordinating with local authorities to deliver emergency supplies, medical aid, and shelter for those displaced.
The earthquake has brought into sharp focus the region’s vulnerability to seismic disasters and the critical importance of robust disaster preparedness, infrastructure resilience, and international cooperation in crisis response.
