A significant earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck Myanmar on Friday, March 28, 2025, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake, originating near Mandalay, sent shockwaves across several neighboring countries, including Thailand, Bangladesh, China, and India, with tremors felt as far away as Dhaka in Bangladesh.
The seismic activity began at approximately 12:50 PM local time and was quickly followed by an aftershock registering at 6.4 around 12:62 PM, further intensifying the situation in Mandalay. Reports indicate that the tremors led to chaos on the roads in the capital city of Naypyidaw.
According to the BBC, the earthquake caused the collapse of an under-construction government building in Bangkok, trapping approximately 43 workers. Video footage shared on social media platforms depicted scenes of panic and disarray in the streets of Bangkok.
The scale of the disaster prompted Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to announce a state of emergency, as numerous buildings and metro services in Bangkok were adversely affected. The aftermath has also drawn the attention of India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing concern on social media:
“Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby.”
The earthquake had a significant impact on the financial sector as well, leading to the suspension of activities at the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Reports indicate that tremors were also felt in Indian cities such as Kolkata and Imphal; however, no casualties have yet been confirmed there. Additionally, state-run news agency VnExpress noted tremors occurring in Vietnam’s Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Emergency Measures in Response to the Disaster
In conjunction with Thailand, Myanmar’s military government has declared a state of emergency. Officials communicated via Telegram, stating:
“The state will make inquiries on the situation quickly and conduct rescue operations along with providing humanitarian aid.”
Casualty reports began to surface quickly after the quake. In Bangkok, two fatalities have been reported, while the situation in Mandalay is more dire, with medical professionals confirming at least 13 deaths and around 200 injuries. The general hospital in Mandalay has been designated a “mass casualty area”as medical staff work to manage the influx of patients.
Additionally, critical sites such as a mosque and the revered Mahamuni Pagoda have reportedly suffered substantial damage, as detailed by the Times of India.
Amid this crisis, Prime Minister Shinawatra convened an emergency meeting to assess the extent of the damage and formulate a response. As of now, authorities have confirmed that no tsunami warnings have been issued, even though the magnitude of the tremors has caused widespread concern and confusion across multiple Asian nations.
For ongoing updates and comprehensive coverage of this seismic event, please refer to the source.