Earthquake devastates Myanmar and Thailand, leading to multiple casualties
- A 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit central Myanmar, affecting both Myanmar and Thailand.
- In Bangkok, a skyscraper under construction collapsed, trapping 81 people and resulting in at least three fatalities.
- The disaster has prompted a state of emergency and raised concerns over infrastructure resilience in the region.
On March 28, 2025, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, with its epicenter located near Mandalay City in the Sagaing region. This seismic event not only caused widespread destruction in Myanmar but also sent strong tremors that were felt across neighboring Thailand, particularly in Bangkok. In Bangkok, the earthquake prompted city authorities to declare a state of emergency after a high-rise building under construction near Chatuchak Market collapsed. Reports indicate that at least three people were confirmed dead, with 81 others trapped under the debris, resulting in frantic rescue efforts from local authorities. Simultaneously, Myanmar faced its own tragedy as three fatalities were recorded due to the collapse of a mosque during the earthquake. Emergency responders in both countries worked tirelessly amid fears of aftershocks that could compound the damage. Eyewitness accounts revealed scenes of panic and chaos as buildings trembled, illustrating the profound impact of the earthquake on urban populations. The region's infrastructure was further tested as Bangkok's urban rail systems temporarily suspended operations, affecting transportation links. In response to the disaster, both Thai and Myanmar governments are mobilizing resources for emergency responses and assessments of the damage. Concerns have been raised about additional structural vulnerabilities in Myanmar and the stability of large dams near the earthquake's epicenter. These developments have heightened anxieties about the necessity of comprehensive disaster preparedness and the resilience of urban planning standards. Furthermore, financial markets reacted swiftly, with the Stock Exchange of Thailand halting trading activities in light of the earthquake's impact on infrastructure and safety. The news sparked discussions about the necessity of reinvesting into stronger infrastructure to withstand such natural disasters, given the growing frequency and intensity of seismic events in the region. This earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by countries situated along tectonic plate boundaries and the urgent need for international cooperation in disaster risk management.