Significant Earthquake in Myanmar: Emergency Declared in Bangkok

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake affected Myanmar and Thailand, with its epicenter in Sagaing. A building collapsed in Bangkok, trapping workers, and a state of emergency was declared. Tremors reached China, and while casualties are unclear, significant disruption happened in the region, especially in densely populated areas of Bangkok.

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and impacted Thailand around midday on Friday, resulting in potential casualties that remain unconfirmed. A high-rise building under construction in Bangkok collapsed due to the tremors, prompting further concern and response from local authorities.

The quake’s epicenter was located in the Sagaing region of Myanmar, an area that has experienced significant turmoil due to ongoing civil conflict. The situation is complicated by checkpoints established by various factions, including the military junta and rebel groups, which hinder mobility.

In response to the earthquake, Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention indicated that tremors were felt across nearly all regions of the country. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared a state of emergency in Bangkok, where the quake’s impact was notably severe.

Trading activities on the Stock Exchange of Thailand were suspended for the afternoon session as a precaution following the earthquake. This decision underscores the economic repercussions of the event as it was felt in the capital, Bangkok.

The collapse of a 30-storey skyscraper, intended for government offices, trapped 43 workers. The swift destruction left debris and twisted metal in its wake, showcasing the earthquake’s intensity and destruction.

According to preliminary reports from the US Geological Survey and Germany’s GFZ geosciences center, the earthquake was shallow, originating from a depth of approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). Footage shared on social media depicted water from rooftop pools spilling over as buildings shook, emphasizing the quake’s alarming effects.

At present, there have been no confirmed reports of casualties. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawtarn convened an emergency meeting to evaluate the situation and its implications for the region.

As the earthquake occurred around 1:30 p.m., alarms were triggered in various buildings, leading to the evacuation of startled residents from high-rise condominiums and hotels in downtown Bangkok.

Myanmar is currently contending with a prolonged civil war following a military coup, rendering the nation particularly vulnerable to natural disasters. Its limited resources exacerbate the challenges faced in disaster response and recovery.

Significantly, tremors from the earthquake were also felt in China’s Yunnan province, indicating the quake’s extensive reach beyond Myanmar and Thailand.

The recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake has resulted in significant disruptions, particularly in Bangkok and the surrounding regions. Emergency measures are underway in Thailand as authorities assess potential casualties and the destruction caused by the tremors, including the collapse of a skyscraper. Myanmar’s ongoing civil strife complicates its ability to respond effectively to such natural disasters, further underscoring the challenges faced by one of Asia’s most impoverished nations amidst this crisis.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com