At least 144 people have died and more than 700 have been injured after a devastating earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, March 28. The 7.7-magnitude tremors were felt not only in the country itself, but also in neighboring Thailand, where a multi-story building collapsed in the capital Bangkok. Authorities in both countries are continuing large-scale rescue operations, and the international community is preparing to provide humanitarian aid. IZ reports this with reference to Reuters.
Photo: MRTV
The epicenter of the earthquake was about 17 km from Mandalay, Myanmar's second largest city. The tremors began at 12:50 local time, at a depth of about 10 km. The scale of the damage has prompted Myanmar's military junta-led government to declare a state of emergency in six regions and appeal for international assistance, a rare move for the isolated regime.
Photo: USGS
Nine people have been officially confirmed dead in Thailand, eight of whom were victims of the collapse of a building under construction in Bangkok. Rescuers said 81 more people could be trapped under the rubble. Authorities have declared the city a disaster zone and have begun emergency evacuations for those affected.
In Myanmar, the cities of Mandalay, Thungtaung and Aung Bhan were the worst hit. Local hospitals, particularly in the capital Naypyidaw, are overwhelmed with victims, who are often treated on the streets as medical facilities are destroyed. Witnesses say some areas remain isolated and out of communication.
According to Mohamed Rias of the International Rescue Committee, it is difficult to assess the full extent of the damage at this time, as transport and communications are severely disrupted. Thousands of people are expected to be left without shelter, food and medical care. In some areas, roads, bridges and dams have been damaged, making access difficult for rescuers.
Panic was seen at Mandalay airport as passengers dropped their belongings and ran for safety. Videos released showed ceiling panels falling to the floor and streets littered with debris. One video from Bangkok showed water cascading from a rooftop pool at a luxury hotel.
Source: The Sun
The international community is already responding to the situation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed his condolences and announced the mobilization of aid. The World Health Organization, the Red Cross and Red Crescent have already activated logistics to supply medical supplies.
Myanmar remains a country already facing an ongoing humanitarian crisis due to a protracted armed conflict following a military coup in 2021. Now, the earthquake could further worsen the situation, while uniting the world in an effort to help those affected.
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