Massive 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake in Myanmar Triggers Emergency in Bangkok; Tremors Felt Across Thailand and China
Bangkok/ March 28: A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday afternoon, sending strong tremors across Thailand, China, and other neighboring regions. The quake, which hit at a depth of 60 km, was followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock just 12 minutes later, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremors caused structural damage, building collapses, and widespread panic across the affected regions.
Thailand Declares Emergency; Authorities Launch Disaster Response
In response to the earthquake’s impact, Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared Bangkok an emergency zone, prompting immediate action from disaster management authorities. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt swiftly ordered the establishment of an earthquake response command center at Bangkok 1 (Giant Swing) to coordinate rescue efforts and damage assessments.
The Governor chaired an emergency meeting, directing all district offices and hospitals to conduct thorough inspections of buildings, bridges, and public infrastructure to assess safety risks. Authorities also dispatched emergency teams to areas reporting significant structural damage.
Widespread Panic and Eyewitness Accounts
As tremors shook Bangkok and other regions, residents evacuated buildings in fear, with some reporting cracks in older structures and high-rises. One of the most affected areas was Sukhumvit Road near the Philippine Embassy, where people gathered in the streets after experiencing strong shaking.
Anita Ghosh, an Indian citizen residing in Saraburi, 160 km from Bangkok, described her experience:
“I was working on my laptop when I suddenly felt my chair move. It lasted a few seconds, but it was strong enough to make me panic. I have never experienced such tremors before.”
Authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant, as aftershocks could continue in the coming days.
India’s Response: Emergency Helpline Issued for Indian Nationals
In New Delhi, Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar addressed the earthquake’s impact on the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) region, emphasizing the importance of regional disaster management collaboration. He highlighted that India has been actively working on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) initiatives to strengthen disaster preparedness in South and Southeast Asia.
The Embassy of India in Bangkok issued an emergency helpline (+66 618819218) for Indian nationals in Thailand who may require assistance. In an official statement, the embassy assured that it is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with Thai authorities.
“So far, no untoward incident involving any Indian citizen has been reported. All members of the Indian Embassy in Bangkok and the Consulate in Chiang Mai are safe,” the statement confirmed.
Impact in Myanmar and Neighboring Countries
While Myanmar was the epicenter of the earthquake, tremors were felt hundreds of miles away, including in Thailand and parts of China’s Yunnan province. The full extent of damage and casualties in Myanmar is still being assessed.
Myanmar, prone to seismic activity, has experienced major earthquakes in the past, with significant destruction in rural and urban areas. Reports indicate that authorities in Myanmar are conducting rescue operations in the most affected areas.
Meanwhile, in Thailand, experts have warned that older buildings and high-rise structures could be at risk due to possible structural weaknesses exposed by the quake. Engineers and safety inspectors have been deployed to assess damage and ensure public safety.
Authorities on High Alert, Residents Urged to Stay Cautious
Authorities across Thailand, Myanmar, and neighboring regions remain on high alert for potential aftershocks. Residents in affected areas are advised to follow official safety guidelines, stay away from damaged structures, and be prepared for further emergency announcements.
The situation continues to develop, with rescue and relief efforts underway in affected areas.
