Devastating 7.7 Quake Shakes Myanmar: India Offers Immediate Aid
A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, shaking neighboring Thailand and sending tremors across northeast India and parts of China. The quake, which originated 16 km northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, was followed by strong aftershocks, sparking panic and causing significant damage. As rescue operations intensify, India has stepped forward, offering immediate assistance to the affected regions.
The Shocking Moment: How It Unfolded
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 km, intensifying its impact. Within an hour, two powerful aftershocks—measuring 6.4 and 4.9 magnitude—rattled the region, adding to the devastation.
Tremors were felt in Myanmar’s major cities, including Mandalay and Yangon, causing buildings to collapse and roads to crack. In Thailand’s Bangkok, high-rise buildings swayed, sending residents into the streets in fear. Even in distant regions like Vientiane, Laos, skyscrapers trembled, alarming citizens.
Eyewitness Accounts: A Night of Chaos
Videos circulating on social media depict the moment of terror—a towering skyscraper collapsing into rubble, panicked crowds fleeing, and emergency sirens blaring in the background.
Residents in Mandalay reported hearing loud rumbling sounds before their homes shook violently. “It felt like the ground was tearing apart,” said a local survivor. Power outages and disrupted communication lines have made rescue efforts more challenging.
PM Modi’s Swift Response: India Offers Help
Reacting swiftly to the crisis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern and assured full support for Myanmar and Thailand.
Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance.
PM Modi has directed Indian authorities to remain on standby, ensuring quick response teams, medical aid, and rescue supplies are ready if requested. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also been instructed to stay in close contact with Myanmar and Thailand’s governments.
Impact on India: Northeast Feels the Tremors
The tremors were also felt in northeast India, especially in Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Assam, where buildings shook for several seconds. While no major damage or casualties have been reported, panic-stricken residents rushed out of their homes.
In Guwahati, Assam, residents described the shaking as “long and intense”, with window panes rattling and furniture shifting. Seismologists warn that aftershocks may continue in the coming days.
Myanmar’s Rescue Operations Underway
Myanmar’s authorities have launched large-scale rescue operations, deploying emergency response teams to affected areas. Excavators and rescue workers are digging through rubble to locate survivors trapped under collapsed buildings.
Authorities in Mandalay have reported significant infrastructure damage, particularly in older buildings and bridges connecting key routes to Yangon. Emergency shelters are being set up for displaced residents.
Why Was the Earthquake So Powerful?
Myanmar lies along the Alpide Belt, a major seismic zone stretching from the Mediterranean to the Pacific. This region frequently experiences earthquakes due to tectonic activity between the Indian and Eurasian plates.
Experts say the shallow depth of 10 km made the earthquake’s impact much more severe, explaining why it was felt across such a vast area.
How Safe Are India & Neighboring Countries?
While India is no stranger to earthquakes, experts emphasize the need for better preparedness in high-risk regions. The northeast and the Himalayas fall in seismic zones IV and V, making them particularly vulnerable.
Key safety measures that could reduce earthquake-related risks:
- Strengthening building codes to ensure earthquake-resistant structures
- Early warning systems to alert people before tremors hit
- Community awareness programs on safety drills
What’s Next? Recovery & Global Support
With rescue efforts in full swing, global leaders are closely monitoring the situation. The United Nations, Red Cross, and neighboring countries have extended their willingness to assist Myanmar.
India’s National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is on standby, ready to provide aid if Myanmar or Thailand requests assistance.
Stay Informed & Stay Safe
As aftershocks continue, authorities advise residents in affected regions to stay alert. If you’re in an earthquake-prone area, follow these safety tips:
Earthquake Safety Tips |
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Drop, Cover, and Hold On during an earthquake |
Stay away from windows, tall furniture, and power lines |
Keep emergency kits ready with essentials like water, food, and first aid |
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