A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, sending shockwaves across neighboring regions, including Bangkok, Thailand. The tremors led to widespread panic, infrastructural damage, and tragic loss of life. As emergency response teams scramble to provide aid, the disaster raises concerns about earthquake preparedness in Southeast Asia.
In This Article:
Epicenter and Immediate Impact
The earthquake originated 16 km northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, at a depth of 10 km, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The seismic waves traveled swiftly, shaking Bangkok’s high-rises, halting metro and rail services, and forcing residents onto the streets in panic. An aftershock measuring 6.8 further exacerbated the situation.
The devastation was particularly severe in Myanmar, where over 20 deaths have been reported, with many more feared trapped under collapsed buildings. In Bangkok, an under-construction skyscraper in the Chatuchak district crumbled, trapping at least 43 workers under the debris. Emergency services rushed to rescue operations as videos of the terrifying quake circulated on social media.
Casualties and Infrastructure Damage
While Myanmar bore the brunt of the disaster, Bangkok faced significant structural damage. Several commercial and residential buildings developed deep cracks, and an old bridge over the Irrawaddy River partially collapsed. The iconic Mandalay University suffered a major fire, adding to the calamity.
Reports from northern Thailand indicate that Chiang Mai, a popular tourist hub, also experienced tremors. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as people fled buildings, fearing further collapses. The Thai government declared a state of emergency in Bangkok and surrounding areas to mobilize rapid relief efforts.
Regional and Global Response
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened an urgent meeting to assess the crisis, pledging full government support for rescue and relief operations. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and offered assistance, stating that Indian authorities were on standby to provide aid.
China’s Yunnan province, which also felt strong tremors, has activated emergency protocols, with disaster response teams assessing damage. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has called for coordinated humanitarian support, emphasizing the need for immediate relief measures.
Lessons in Earthquake Preparedness
This disaster underscores the need for robust earthquake preparedness in Southeast Asia. Thailand is not located on a major seismic fault line, leading to a sense of complacency regarding earthquake-resistant infrastructure. However, with recent tremors affecting the region, authorities may need to revise building codes and implement stricter safety measures.
Public awareness campaigns on earthquake safety, drills in commercial buildings, and emergency response coordination are crucial in minimizing casualties during such natural disasters. Experts also stress the importance of retrofitting older structures to withstand seismic shocks.
The Way Forward
As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on saving lives and providing medical aid to the injured. The international community has pledged support, ensuring that affected areas receive immediate relief supplies, including food, water, and medical assistance.
While earthquakes cannot be prevented, proactive measures, stringent regulations, and public awareness can significantly reduce their impact. Bangkok and neighboring regions must now take urgent steps to enhance preparedness, ensuring that future disasters do not lead to such devastating consequences.
By – Jyothi
