Myanmar Earthquake: Bangkok Building Collapse
The earthquakes, measuring 7.7 and 6.4 magnitude, have caused disruption to communication and power lines, with many areas experiencing power outages, and the death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue. The international community is coming together to provide aid and support to those affected by the disaster.
A high-rise building under construction in Bangkok, Thailand's capital, has collapsed after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck in neighboring Myanmar, followed by a strong aftershock, leaving workers feared trapped and causing widespread destruction.
The incident occurred in the Chatuchak neighborhood, with workers seen fleeing the scene as the building came down. The earthquake, which hit 16 kilometers north-northwest of the town of Sagaing, Myanmar, at 12:50 p.m. local time, caused chaos in Bangkok, with buildings swaying and water cascading over rooftop pools, prompting crowds to rush onto the streets in panic.
The Myanmar military declared an "emergency situation" in several regions, including Mandalay and the capital Naypyidaw, while Thailand's Prime Minister declared Bangkok an "emergency zone" and urged people to avoid high-rise buildings and remain calm. The Indian Prime Minister offered assistance to Myanmar, saying India is ready to provide all possible help.
The quake has caused widespread destruction, with many buildings damaged or collapsed, and an unknown number of people trapped under the rubble. Rescue teams are working to search for survivors, but the Myanmar military is struggling to respond to the disaster, with many areas outside its control due to the ongoing civil war.
The full extent of the damage is not yet clear, but it is expected to be significant, with the Sagaing Fault, a 1,200 km tectonic boundary between the Indian Plate and Burma microplate, being the main reason for Myanmar's earthquake vulnerability. The region's densely populated areas near fault lines increase the potential for destruction, and the international community is urged to provide assistance to those affected.