Myanmar Earthquake: 144 Dead, Thailand Building Collapse Traps Over 117
A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake, followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock, struck Myanmar on Friday, killing at least 144 people and causing widespread destruction, including the collapse of the historic Ava Bridge. The tremors, felt across Thailand, led to a skyscraper collapse in Bangkok, trapping over 117 workers and claiming eight lives, as rescue efforts intensify in both nations.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the epicentre of the first quake, measuring 7.7, was 17.2 km from Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city with 1.5 million residents. A 6.4-magnitude aftershock hit minutes later, worsening the damage. State TV confirmed 144 deaths, with fears the toll could rise as remote areas remain cut off. The iconic 90-year-old Ava Bridge in Mandalay collapsed into the Irrawaddy River, alongside a railway bridge and a road bridge on the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway, disrupting connectivity.
In Mandalay, a mosque collapse in Taungoo killed three, while a hotel in Aung Ban, Shan State, crumbled, leaving two dead and 20 trapped. Unconfirmed reports suggest over 20 deaths nationwide. Visuals online showed a fallen clock tower and damaged sections of the historic Mandalay Palace. A tea shop in the Mandalay Region also collapsed, trapping several people, with locals describing the situation as “very bad” and inaccessible.
In Bangkok, 900 km from the epicentre, an under-construction skyscraper collapsed, killing eight and trapping over 117 workers. Thai officials reported rescuing dozens, but around 80 remain missing. The Stock Exchange of Thailand halted trading, and metro services were suspended as panicked residents, including hotel guests, fled onto streets. Water poured from a luxury hotel’s elevated pool, adding to the chaos in the Thai capital.
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The quake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar and Thailand. Bangladesh’s Dhaka and Chattogram, China’s Yunnan province, and India’s Kolkata, Imphal, and Meghalaya’s East Garo Hills felt tremors. No casualties or major damage were reported in these areas, according to official sources. China’s Xinhua news agency confirmed Yunnan experienced strong shaking but no deaths so far.
Myanmar’s military junta declared a state of emergency in six regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay, and Naypyitaw, and made a rare call for international aid. Damaged bridges and roads have hampered rescue efforts, especially in areas with displaced populations due to ongoing conflict. Red Cross official Marie Manrique said, “Public infrastructure, including roads and bridges, is severely damaged. We’re concerned about large-scale dams, which are under close watch.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern, stating, “India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. I’ve asked our authorities to be on standby and the MEA to coordinate with Myanmar and Thailand.” India’s readiness adds to global attention on the crisis. The Red Cross also highlighted the northwest of Myanmar as the hardest-hit region, urging swift action.
Rescue operations continue in Bangkok and Myanmar, with teams racing against time to save those trapped. Myanmar’s junta and Thai authorities are assessing damage, but inaccessible areas and aftershock risks complicate efforts. The death toll may rise as more reports emerge, with international aid likely to play a key role in recovery. Updates on casualties and infrastructure status are expected in the coming hours.
