A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread destruction and panic across Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand and Bangladesh. The tremor, which originated near the city of Sagaing, was felt as far away as Bangkok, where a 30-storey building under construction collapsed, trapping dozens of workers.
The earthquake hit at approximately 12:25 PM local time, with its epicenter located about 16 kilometers north-northwest of Sagaing at a depth of 10 kilometers, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Following the initial quake, a strong aftershock measuring 6.4 struck the same area just minutes later.
In Thailand, the collapse of the high-rise building in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district resulted in the tragic loss of at least three lives, with reports indicating that 81 workers were trapped under the rubble. Emergency responders managed to rescue seven individuals from the debris, but the situation remains critical as rescue operations continue.
Thai Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed the fatalities and emphasized the need for immediate action. “We are coordinating a response to this disaster,” he stated. In light of the devastation, Bangkok has been declared a disaster area, prompting the city’s governor to oversee relief efforts.
The tremors were also felt in Myanmar, where significant damage occurred. In the capital Naypyidaw, a major hospital was designated as a "mass casualty area" due to the influx of injured individuals. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as patients were treated outside the emergency department, with some lying motionless while others were in visible distress.
Reports indicate that at least three people died in Myanmar after a mosque partially collapsed during the quake. Additionally, parts of the former royal palace and various buildings in Mandalay sustained damage, with videos showing debris scattered across the streets.
In response to the disaster, Myanmar’s ruling military junta declared a state of emergency across six regions, including Naypyidaw and Mandalay. The junta has made a rare request for international humanitarian aid, highlighting the challenges posed by the ongoing civil conflict in the country, which complicates relief efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India expressed deep concern over the situation, offering assistance to both Myanmar and Thailand. In a post on social media, he stated, “Concerned by the situation in the wake of the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and well-being of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance.”
Following the earthquake, the Stock Exchange of Thailand announced the immediate suspension of all trading activities, reflecting the gravity of the situation. The tremors were felt across various regions, including Bangladesh, where a magnitude 7.3 quake was reported, causing further panic among residents.
In Kolkata and Imphal, India, mild tremors were also experienced, although no significant damage was reported. Residents in Kolkata felt slight swaying of wall hangings, while in Imphal, panic ensued, especially in areas with older multi-storey buildings.
As rescue operations continue in Bangkok, authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and coordinate relief efforts. The Thai government has urged residents to remain cautious and stay outdoors in case of further tremors.
The earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the seismic risks faced by countries in the region, particularly Myanmar, which is situated near the Sagaing Fault, known for its earthquake activity. Experts have long warned of the vulnerabilities posed by inadequate infrastructure and urban planning in the face of natural disasters.
In conclusion, the tragic events following the earthquake highlight the urgent need for effective disaster preparedness and response strategies in earthquake-prone regions. As communities begin to recover from this disaster, the focus will be on rebuilding and ensuring that such tragedies are mitigated in the future.
