Massive 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand; PM Modi Offers India’s Assistance

Massive 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand; PM Modi Offers India’s Assistance
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New Delhi, 28 March 2025: A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday morning, sending shockwaves across Thailand, Northeast India, and parts of China. The tremors, which occurred at approximately 6:37 AM Indian Standard Time (IST), were followed by two strong aftershocks of 6.4 and 4.9 magnitude within an hour, exacerbating the damage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern over the disaster and assured India’s full support to the affected nations. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi stated:

“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.”

He further directed authorities to remain on standby and instructed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to coordinate with the governments of Myanmar and Thailand for emergency relief operations.

Epicentre and Intensity

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicentre was located 16 km northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, at a depth of 10 km. The German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) confirmed the seismic activity near Mandalay, one of Myanmar’s largest cities.

Damage and Casualties

While official casualty figures are still emerging, initial reports indicate:

At least 120 injuries reported across Myanmar and Thailand.
No confirmed deaths so far, but rescue operations are ongoing.
Multiple buildings collapsed in Mandalay and Yangon, Myanmar.
Roads and bridges severely damaged, disrupting transport between major cities.
In Bangkok, Thailand, high-rise buildings swayed violently, forcing mass evacuations.

Panic and Evacuations

Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as people fled homes and offices. Videos from Myanmar showed a multi-storey building collapsing, with locals and workers running for safety. In Vientiane, Laos, residents felt strong tremors, causing panic.

Emergency Response

Myanmar’s government has launched large-scale rescue operations, with emergency teams searching for survivors.
Thailand’s disaster response teams are assessing structural damage in Bangkok and northern provinces.
India’s National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is on standby for deployment if requested.

International Reactions

Several countries, including Japan and the United States, have offered assistance. The United Nations is monitoring the situation and preparing for potential humanitarian aid.

Seismic Risk in the Region

Myanmar and neighboring regions lie in a highly active seismic zone, making them vulnerable to earthquakes. Experts warn of possible aftershocks in the coming days.

India’s Preparedness

Tremors were felt in India’s northeastern states, including Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland. However, no major damage has been reported. Authorities are alert for potential aftershocks.

How to Help?

Donate to relief organizations like the Red Cross.
Avoid spreading unverified information to prevent panic.
Follow official updates from government agencies.

As the situation develops, the world watches with concern, hoping for minimal loss of life and a swift recovery for the affected regions.

newsbabaonline.com