Massive 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar, 144 Dead; Widespread Impact Across Five Countries

Myanmar Devastated by Powerful Earthquake

On March 28 (Friday) at 11:50 AM, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and panic. The tremors were felt in India, Thailand, Bangladesh, and China, leading to mass evacuations and significant structural damage.

Casualties and Destruction

Myanmar: At least 20 people have been killed, and over 300 injured.
Thailand: In Bangkok, a 30-story under-construction building collapsed, trapping 80 workers under the debris and killing three.
Total Death Toll: 144 confirmed fatalities across Myanmar and Thailand.
Mass Panic: Thousands rushed out of their homes and offices as tremors shook multiple cities.

Countries Affected

India: Tremors were reported in Kolkata, Imphal, and Meghalaya.
Bangladesh: Strong tremors, measuring 7.3 magnitude, were recorded in Dhaka and Chattogram (Chittagong).
China: Several areas in Southwest China also experienced the quake’s impact.

Government Response

Thailand: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has declared a state of emergency in Bangkok due to the destruction.
India: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern and assured all possible assistance to Myanmar and Thailand. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has been directed to coordinate relief efforts with both governments.

Geological Explanation

The earthquake’s epicenter was 16 km northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, at a depth of 10 km.
Myanmar lies on the Sagaing Fault Line, a 1,200 km-long active seismic zone running from the Andaman Sea to the Himalayas.
Frequent earthquakes occur here due to tectonic plate movements, with the Indian Plate pushing northeast against the Eurasian Plate.
The last major earthquake in this fault zone was in 2012 (magnitude 6.8). Between 1930 and 1956, six earthquakes with magnitude 7+ were recorded.

What’s Next?

Search-and-rescue operations are in full swing as authorities race against time to locate survivors. International aid efforts are expected to reach affected regions soon.

Stay tuned for more updates.