A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar near Mandalay, claiming over 1,000 lives and causing widespread destruction. The tremor, the strongest to hit Myanmar in over a century, has left thousands injured, with fears that the death toll could surpass 10,000, according to the US Geological Survey.
International Aid Mobilized
China and India were among the first to respond, with China deploying a rescue team to Yangon and pledging $13 million in humanitarian aid. India has sent medical and rescue teams, while Russia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia have also committed to providing assistance. Relief efforts are underway as authorities work to reach affected communities.
High-Rise Collapse in Bangkok: Urgent Rescue Efforts
The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar, causing an under-construction high-rise in Bangkok, Thailand, to collapse. At least ten people have been reported dead, with over 100 feared trapped under the rubble. Thai authorities have deployed heavy machinery and rescue teams to locate survivors. Bangkok’s governor emphasized the urgency, stating that every second is critical in the effort to save those still trapped.
Myanmar’s Struggles with Disaster Response
Already facing challenges from a civil war after the 2021 military coup, Myanmar’s relief efforts have been hampered by damaged roads and communication blackouts. In a rare move, the junta has requested international aid, marking a departure from its usual stance of rejecting global assistance.
Witnesses have described terrifying moments during the quake. Businessman Zu Guolin was on the iconic U Bein Bridge in Mandalay when it swayed violently. Many residents are now sleeping in cars, too afraid to return to cracked and damaged buildings. One resident shared how her grandmother was buried under debris when a wall collapsed, highlighting the personal tragedies unfolding across the region.
Structural Damage and Safety Concerns
Bangkok authorities have received over 2,000 reports of structural cracks in buildings, prompting immediate inspections of 700 structures. While no completed buildings have collapsed, officials remain vigilant. Geologists warn of continued aftershocks in the coming months, with the earthquake’s energy release compared to over 300 atomic bomb explosions.
Rising Death Toll and Continuing Search Efforts
Myanmar’s state media reports 1,002 deaths and over 2,300 injuries. The junta leader has visited the devastated areas, pledging continued search and rescue operations. In Bangkok, rescue teams have detected signs of life from at least 15 individuals trapped under the collapsed high-rise, offering a glimmer of hope.
As Myanmar and Thailand grapple with the aftermath of this disaster, search and rescue efforts remain a priority, with international aid playing a crucial role in the recovery.
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