INTERNATIONAL: Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 144, Over 700 Injured
Widespread Devastation as Myanmar Struggles with Aftermath
At least 144 people have lost their lives, and 732 others have been injured following a massive earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday, according to official reports. The disaster has overwhelmed medical facilities in multiple regions as authorities struggle to cope with the rising number of casualties.
International Aid and Government Response
Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, addressing the nation on state broadcaster MRTV, confirmed that Myanmar has sought international assistance for relief efforts. “I have allowed some offers for support from the AHA Center and India,” he announced, signaling a move to collaborate with external agencies to manage the crisis.
Powerful Earthquake and Series of Aftershocks
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which struck 16 kilometers (9.9 miles) northwest of Sagaing, was followed by a strong 6.4-magnitude aftershock, as recorded by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The initial tremor, occurring at a shallow depth of 10 km, struck at 11:50 AM IST, followed by another 7.0-magnitude shock just 12 minutes later.
According to Dr. OP Mishra, director of the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake sequence occurred along the Sagaing Fault, Myanmar’s longest fault line stretching 1,200 km. “This is not the first time an earthquake above magnitude 7 has occurred in this region,” Mishra stated, pointing to the area’s history of strong seismic activity.
Hospitals Overwhelmed by Casualties
Myanmar’s hospitals, particularly in Naypyidaw, Mandalay, and Sagaing, are struggling to handle the surge in patients. Major General Zaw Min Tun confirmed that medical facilities are facing extreme pressure, with resources stretched thin. Emergency response teams are working urgently to provide medical aid and shelter to those affected.
Travel Disruptions Following the Quake
The powerful earthquake also caused alarm among travelers, particularly those scheduled to visit Thailand. Airlines and travel agencies received an influx of inquiries from Indian tourists, though official cancellations were not immediately confirmed.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, reassured passengers that flights to and from Thailand, including Bangkok, Krabi, and Phuket, remained operational. “We understand that some of our customers may have faced difficulties reaching the airport due to this situation. To support those affected, we are accommodating them on the next available flight,” IndiGo stated.
Air India flights also continued as scheduled, while Thai low-cost carrier Nok Air reported minor delays due to airport safety inspections. “Some flights are currently delayed due to airport safety inspections. Passengers should check for updates,” Nok Air said in an official email.
Tourism and Transportation Updates in Thailand
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) confirmed that all airports in Bangkok remain operational, with no reported disruptions to flight schedules. However, safety checks on elevated rail tracks resulted in temporary service suspensions.
- Rail services between Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station and Rangsit faced delays due to structural inspections.
- MRT Blue and Purple Lines were temporarily suspended for safety assessments.
- BTS Skytrain services were halted as part of emergency protocols.
Thailand remains a top destination for Indian travelers, with over 2 million Indian tourists visiting the country in 2024. Despite the earthquake’s impact, Thai authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure minimal disruptions to tourism and transportation.
Urgent Need for Relief and Rehabilitation
As Myanmar continues to assess the damage, international agencies are stepping in to provide aid. Rescue operations remain ongoing, with emergency teams working tirelessly to assist affected communities. Given Myanmar’s existing challenges, including political instability, the earthquake has further exacerbated humanitarian concerns in the region.