New Delhi: In a region already grappling with vulnerability, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the heart of Myanmar on Friday, sending shockwaves as far as Bangkok, more than 500 miles away. The seismic event highlighted the region’s susceptibility to natural disasters, testing the structural resilience of numerous buildings and prompting widespread panic in both countries.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located near the city of Sagaing, approximately 250 kilometers from Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw. The quake occurred at 12:50 pm local time, with its epicenter situated 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing at a depth of 10 kilometers. An aftershock measuring 6.8 magnitude quickly followed, underscoring the seismic instability of the region. Despite the significant force of the quakes, there were no immediate reports of casualties, and no tsunami warning was issued.
The earthquake’s impact was pronounced across borders. In Bangkok, the tremors led to the suspension of some metro and rail services, reflecting the immediate concern for public safety. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an urgent meeting to assess the situation and ensure the well-being of citizens in the densely populated city. In China’s Yunnan province, the quake’s magnitude was measured at a significant 7.9, further emphasizing its far-reaching effects.
Reports from closer to the epicenter revealed significant damage, including the collapse of an under-construction skyscraper in Bangkok, with at least 40 workers reportedly missing. Additionally, structural failures were observed in the old Sagaing Bridge and several residential buildings, raising concerns about potential entrapments.
