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A devastating earthquake struck Myanmar and neighboring Thailand on Friday, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The 7.7-magnitude quake, centered near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, shook the region at midday, followed by a strong aftershock of 6.4 magnitude. In Myanmar, images from hard-hit cities depicted crumbled buildings and roads, while in Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, a high-rise under construction collapsed, killing at least three people. The full extent of the damage remains unclear, especially in Myanmar, where a civil war has already left millions in distress.
In Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, structures housing civil servants were severely damaged, and rescue efforts were underway to pull victims from the wreckage. Cracked highways and the collapse of a bridge and dam have made access to affected areas difficult, further complicating relief efforts. In Bangkok, the powerful tremors caused a 33-story building under construction to crumble into dust, leading to panic among bystanders. Emergency sirens blared through the city as first responders rushed to aid those trapped in the debris. Public transportation, including the rapid transit system and subway, was temporarily halted to ensure commuter safety.
The earthquake’s tremors reached areas unaccustomed to such intensity, sparking fear among residents. Office workers in Bangkok, feeling buildings sway, initially mistook the sensation for dizziness before realizing the ground beneath them was shaking. As people evacuated, streets became gridlocked with vehicles, and many sought refuge in open spaces like parks. Meanwhile, in Myanmar’s Mandalay, historic sites such as the Ma Soe Yane monastery and parts of the former royal palace suffered extensive damage. A dam burst in the city, increasing concerns over flooding in low-lying areas already struggling with infrastructure challenges.
Rescue teams face numerous obstacles, from downed power lines to damaged roads, making relief efforts even more urgent. The Red Cross and humanitarian organizations stressed the dire need for essential supplies like food, clean water, and shelter for displaced families. Myanmar’s ongoing political turmoil has complicated the crisis, with millions already displaced due to conflict. As emergency responders work tirelessly, the region braces for possible aftershocks, hoping for swift aid to those in need.
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(Source: BBC | CNN | Al Jazeera)
