The North News
New Delhi, March 29
The death toll from a powerful earthquake that struck central Myanmar has risen to more than 1,000, with thousands injured, as rescue operations continue in affected areas, Myanmar local media reported. The 7.7-magnitude quake hit shortly before 1 pm local time on Friday, with its epicentre west of Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. The tremor was felt across the country, including in the capital, Naypyidaw, as well as in neighbouring Thailand, China, and Laos.
Early estimates placed the number of dead at 144, but revised figures released on Saturday after military junta leader Senior-General Min Aung Hlaing visited Mandalay put the toll at 1,002, with at least 2,400 others injured, according to Myanmar Now.
Myanmar media reported that the quake caused the collapse of key infrastructure, including the old Sagaing Bridge and sections of the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway, leading to road closures. Buildings in Mandalay, Naypyidaw, Pyinmana, Aungban, and Inlay also suffered significant damage.
Myanmar’s Sagaing Fault, which runs through central and northern regions, is a major seismic hotspot due to the movement of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Authorities have warned of continued risks and stressed the need for earthquake-resistant construction and public preparedness measures.
The Strat News Global reported that several countries, including Russia, India, Malaysia, and Singapore, have sent emergency aid and relief personnel to Myanmar, which has been struggling with a civil war since a 2021 military coup ousted an elected civilian government. “We will continue to monitor the developments and more aid will follow,” said External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
South Korea has pledged an initial $2 million in humanitarian aid through international organisations, while the United States, despite its strained ties with Myanmar’s military leadership, has said it will provide assistance. The earthquake affected large parts of the country, from the central plains around Mandalay to the hills of Shan, some of which remain outside the junta’s full control.
