Bangkok declares emergency after 7.7-magnitude Myanmar earthquake; India offers help
What's the story
Thai authorities have declared a state of emergency in Bangkok after a strong 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar, with tremors felt in many neighboring countries, including China and India. According to Reuters, Thailand's stock exchange has also suspended trading after the earthquake. The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported that an aftershock with a magnitude of 6.4 struck the region around 12 minutes after the initial quake. The earthquake struck around 12:50pm, 16km northwest of Sagaing city at a depth of 10km.
Collapse
Bangkok building collapse traps workers
While no death reports have surfaced as yet, police in Bangkok reported that a 30-story skyscraper under construction for government offices collapsed, trapping 43 workers. "When I arrived at the site, I heard people calling for help," said Worapat Sukthai, deputy police chief of Bang Sue district. "We estimate that hundreds of people are injured but we are still determining the number of casualties," he said.
Eyewitness
Eyewitness accounts from Myanmar's National Museum
At Myanmar's National Museum in Naypyidaw, AFP journalists felt the quake firsthand. As the building shook, pieces fell from the ceiling, and uniformed staff rushed out. Nearby roads were buckled by tremors, and traffic was heavy on routes to one of the city's biggest hospitals, which became a "mass casualty area" after the quake. An ambulance weaved through stationary vehicles as a paramedic urged cars to move aside for it.
India
India offers assistance
Some metro and light rail services in Bangkok were also suspended after the quake. Meanwhile, India has offered its assistance, with PM Narendra Modi stating that the country stands ready to offer all possible help. "In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand," he wrote on X.