Damage Is Seen To Part Of The Emergency Department Of A Hospital In Naypyidaw
A massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, shaking the region and causing widespread destruction across Myanmar and Thailand. The quake, felt as far as Bangkok and China’s Yunnan province, triggered building collapses, panic, and rescue operations as authorities scrambled to assess the damage.
Eyewitness Accounts: The Fear and Destruction
In Mandalay, Myanmar, where some of the worst destruction occurred, resident Aung Min described the horrifying moments when the earthquake hit:
“It felt like the ground was tearing apart. People screamed, ran for cover, and buildings collapsed like they were made of paper. I saw a pagoda crumble before my eyes.”
In Bangkok, Thailand, office worker Somchai Phutthamon was in a high-rise building when the tremors began:
“The floor beneath me was swaying. Everyone panicked and rushed to the stairs. I’ve never felt anything like it.”
Fatalities and Damage in Myanmar
At least 10 people have been reported dead in Mandalay, and many more remain trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings, including the historic Shwe Phone Shein Mosque. The Myanmar military government has declared a state of emergency in six regions, including Naypyidaw, and appealed for international assistance.
Rescue worker Than Htay, struggling to save survivors, said:
“We are pulling people out, but many are still buried under concrete and bricks. We need heavy equipment and more help.”
Bangkok: High-Rise Disaster
In Bangkok, a 30-story building under construction in the Chatuchak district collapsed due to the tremors, killing at least two people and trapping dozens. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has declared Bangkok a disaster zone, saying:
“We are mobilizing all resources to assist those affected. Thailand stands strong in the face of this tragedy.”
A Region on Edge: Ongoing Aftershocks and Warnings
Seismologists warn that aftershocks could follow in the coming days, adding to the devastation.
Residents in Myanmar and Thailand have been advised to stay outdoors and avoid damaged buildings.
As the world watches, survivors like Mandalay shopkeeper Aye Aye Win reflect on the tragedy:
“Eid was supposed to be a time of celebration, but now, we are mourning our neighbors and praying for those still trapped.”
International Aid and Response
Global aid organizations, including the Red Cross and ASEAN emergency teams, are coordinating relief efforts.
Myanmar’s military leader Min Aung Hlaing has vowed to prioritize rescue operations and medical aid for victims.
Meanwhile, Bangkok’s Governor Chadchart Sittipunt reassured residents:
“Our city is resilient. We will rebuild, but for now, we focus on saving lives.”
A Nation in Mourning, A Region in Shock
As rescue efforts continue, the true scale of the disaster is still unfolding.
For many, the question remains: how long will it take for these communities to recover?
