A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, leading Thailand’s PM to declare a state of emergency. Extensive damage occurred, including a building collapse in Bangkok, while seismic activity prompted the need for swift disaster responses in Myanmar. Tremors were felt throughout the region, including in India and China, emphasizing the earthquake’s widespread impact.
On March 28, a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, prompting Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to declare a state of emergency in Bangkok. This earthquake occurred near Sagaing city, at a shallow depth of 10 km at approximately 12:50 PM local time. Concurrently, a 4.0 magnitude quake was reported in Meghalaya’s East Garo Hills, with tremors felt across Kolkata and Imphal.
Reports indicate that the earthquake caused significant destruction, leading to the collapse of a 30-storey building in Bangkok, trapping 43 workers inside. Hospitals in Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, became overwhelmed, turning into “mass casualty areas,” as ambulances struggled to reach the facilities amid traffic jams. Witnesses recounted scenes of chaos, with many people fleeing onto the streets in panic.
Notably, the iconic Ava Bridge in Myanmar also collapsed due to the seismic activity. The Thai stock exchange temporarily suspended trading following the earthquake. However, operations at Bangkok’s airport were reported to remain unaffected. Reports from China’s southwest Yunnan province indicated that tremors were also felt there, measuring 7.9 in magnitude.
The military junta in Myanmar announced plans to conduct inquiries and provide rescue operations, highlighting the situation’s severity. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed readiness to assist Myanmar and Thailand, emphasizing regional solidarity against natural disasters. Despite the aftershocks, life in Bangkok gradually resumed, though caution remained paramount as residents continued to assess the aftermath of this significant earthquake.
The 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar and its subsequent effects underscore the urgent need for emergency preparedness and international cooperation in disaster response. Thailand’s swift action in declaring a state of emergency and India’s readiness to assist reflect a unified approach to dealing with natural calamities. As the region navigates the aftermath, efforts to assist those affected remain paramount as reconstruction and healing begin.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
