HYDERABAD: The earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday may have claimed more than 10,000 lives, according to an estimate by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremors were felt in Thailand, Bangladesh, China, and India.
According to reports, Myanmar’s military government stated that the death toll has crossed 1,000, while over 2,300 people have been injured. In Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, a 30-storey building collapsed, resulting in the death of 10 people.
The earthquake occurred at 11:50 AM on Friday in Myanmar and measured 7.7 on the Richter scale. It is the most powerful earthquake in 200 years for both Myanmar and Thailand. Due to the widespread destruction, a state of emergency has been declared in six states of Myanmar and across Thailand.
The two countries were struck by back-to-back powerful earthquakes on Friday, causing massive devastation. Roads, bridges, and airports were damaged, and several buildings collapsed, resulting in significant loss of life and property. In response, the international community has stepped in to assist the affected regions.
India has sent approximately 15 tonnes of relief materials to Myanmar using a military transport aircraft under ‘Operation Brahma’. A C130J aircraft of the Indian Air Force departed from Hindon Air Base carrying tents, blankets, sleeping bags, generators, food packets, water purification units, solar lamps, and essential medicines.
In addition to India, the United States, Indonesia, and China have also announced that they will provide necessary assistance. The death toll in both Myanmar and Thailand continues to rise. As per the latest reports, at least 1,002 people have died in Myanmar and 2,370 have been injured. Hundreds are feared trapped under the rubble. Rescue operations are currently underway in the affected areas, and the number of casualties is expected to increase.
In Bangkok, along with the confirmed deaths, around 100 construction workers are missing after the collapse of a major building.
