A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing extensive damage and affecting multiple countries. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the epicenter was located 16 kilometers northwest of Sagaing at a depth of 10 kilometers. The tremors were felt in Thailand, China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and India, prompting emergency responses and large-scale rescue efforts.
The earthquake led to extensive damage to infrastructure in Myanmar, particularly in Naypyidaw and nearby regions. Roads cracked, buildings collapsed, and several historical landmarks, including a former royal palace in Mandalay, sustained structural damage. Residential areas were also affected, with many homes reduced to rubble, trapping people under debris. The disaster disrupted electricity and communication services, making rescue operations more challenging.
A mosque in Taungoo partially collapsed, resulting in three fatalities and multiple injuries. Rescue teams are searching for survivors, while hospitals struggle to accommodate the injured. Authorities declared a mass casualty emergency at a major hospital in Naypyidaw, as medical teams work with limited supplies. The Myanmar government has declared a state of emergency in six regions and is requesting international assistance for relief efforts.
The tremors were strongly felt in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok, where an under-construction 30-storey building collapsed near Chatuchak Park. At the time of the incident, 50 workers were on-site, with 43 reported missing. Emergency teams are using heavy equipment and trained dogs to locate survivors. Several other high-rise buildings in Bangkok sustained structural damage, and safety inspections are ongoing to prevent further incidents.
Authorities in Bangkok have urged caution, advising residents to stay away from damaged structures. Engineers are working to stabilize affected buildings. Metro and light rail services in the city were temporarily suspended while safety checks were conducted.
The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar and Thailand. In India, tremors were felt in Kolkata, Imphal, and Meghalaya’s East Garo Hills, prompting evacuations. No significant damage was reported, but the tremors caused panic, particularly in older urban areas.
In China’s Yunnan province, the quake was recorded as a 7.9-magnitude event. Some structures suffered minor damage, though no casualties have been confirmed. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
Bangladesh experienced a 7.3-magnitude tremor, with shaking reported in Dhaka and Chattogram. No immediate fatalities were recorded, but inspections are underway to assess possible structural damage.
The earthquake severely impacted transportation networks across the region. In Myanmar’s Sagaing region, a 90-year-old bridge collapsed, while multiple sections of the Mandalay-Yangon highway suffered structural failures, affecting relief efforts. Rural roads in quake-hit areas were blocked by debris and landslides.
In Thailand, roads and transport infrastructure were also affected. Damage caused disruptions to metro and train services in Bangkok. The Stock Exchange of Thailand suspended afternoon trading as a precautionary measure. Airports in Myanmar and Thailand conducted emergency inspections to ensure runway and terminal safety.
Visuals from Myanmar showed severe road buckling in Naypyidaw, highlighting the extent of urban infrastructure damage.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the situation and pledged support for Myanmar and Thailand. The Ministry of External Affairs is coordinating with both governments to provide assistance. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) remains on standby to deploy aid teams if required.
The United Nations and other international organizations have also mobilized resources. The UN has committed emergency relief efforts, including medical supplies, food, and temporary shelters. Humanitarian groups are preparing additional aid shipments to affected regions in Myanmar.
Rescue operations are underway in Myanmar and Thailand, with authorities prioritizing search and relief efforts. In Bangkok, teams are working to locate missing construction workers in the collapsed high-rise. Drones and thermal imaging technology are being used to detect signs of life beneath the debris.
Emergency response teams in Myanmar are focusing on the most severely affected areas, including Sagaing and Naypyidaw, where collapsed structures have left many stranded. Volunteers and local organizations are distributing food, water, and temporary shelter for those displaced by the disaster.
Officials are urging residents in affected areas to remain cautious and follow safety instructions. As rescue and recovery efforts continue, a detailed assessment will be needed to determine the extent of reconstruction required and to enhance disaster response strategies. Governments and international agencies will play a central role in rebuilding communities and improving preparedness for future seismic events.
