Death Toll Tops 1,000, Over 2,000 Injured: Myanmar and Thailand Reeling After Earthquake

At least 1,000 people have been confirmed dead following a powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar and parts of Thailand on Friday. The 7.7-magnitude quake hit north-western Myanmar at 12:50 pm (0650 GMT), causing widespread devastation. The earthquake, which occurred at a shallow depth of just 10 km, was quickly followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock and numerous smaller tremors. These seismic events were felt across a vast region, from India to the west, and China, Cambodia, and Laos to the east.

The death toll has surpassed 1,000 in Myanmar, with the military junta confirming the grim figures. The destruction in Myanmar has been catastrophic, especially in the city of Mandalay, where buildings have collapsed and reduced to debris. Emergency workers and local residents have been working tirelessly to rescue those trapped under debris. Among the most significant losses was the collapse of the Ava Bridge, a historic structure that spanned the Irrawaddy River from Sagaing. The bridge, which was nearly 100 years old, fell into the water below.

In Thailand, at least 10 people were killed, owing to the collapse of a high-rise building under construction near Bangkok's Chatuchak market. It is feared that up to 100 workers may still be trapped beneath the rubble of the collapsed structure. Rescue teams are working around the clock to locate and save survivors.

The scale of the devastation has prompted Myanmar’s isolated military regime to make an unusual request for international assistance. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing publicly appealed for aid from any country or organisation willing to provide help. This rare call for support highlights the enormity of the disaster and the need for urgent relief.

India was among the first to respond to Myanmar's plea for aid. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his concern over the tragedy and offered India’s full support. "We are praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone affected. India stands ready to provide all possible assistance," he said in a statement on Friday. In response, the Indian government dispatched 15 tonnes of emergency relief supplies, including tents, blankets, water purifiers, and essential medicines, from its Hindon air base to Myanmar.

The Thai government, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, convened an emergency meeting to assess the damage and coordinate the response to the disaster. The Indian embassy in Thailand reported no casualties among Indian nationals but advised vigilance and caution.

The European Union and the United States have also pledged their support. US President Donald Trump confirmed that Washington had been in contact with Myanmar’s authorities and assured that the United States would offer assistance.​