Deadly Earthquake Claims 10 Lives, 101 Missing in Bangkok
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Synopsis
On March 29, a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar, resulting in significant tremors across Thailand, particularly Bangkok. Thai authorities reported 10 deaths, 16 injuries, and 101 individuals unaccounted for, while emergency measures were implemented to assess damage and ensure public safety.
Key Takeaways
- 10 fatalities reported in Bangkok.
- 101 individuals still missing.
- Emergency zones declared in Bangkok and two provinces.
- Significant damage across 14 provinces.
- Rescue efforts ongoing in Myanmar amidst communication disruptions.
Bangkok, March 29 (NationPress) Ten individuals have lost their lives, 16 sustained injuries, and 101 others are unaccounted for in the capital city of Bangkok, as reported by Thai officials on Saturday following a significant earthquake that originated in Myanmar, shaking Thailand with powerful tremors.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) declared emergency disaster zones in Bangkok along with two additional provinces, as officials initiated assessments of structural integrity and damage across the impacted areas.
According to Phasakorn Boonyalak, the DDPM's director general, damage was reported across 14 provinces after the earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday afternoon, as per reports from Xinhua news agency.
Tremors were experienced in 57 provinces, with Bangkok being particularly affected, leading to mass evacuations from offices, residential buildings, and convention venues as individuals sought refuge on streets and in parks.
The earthquake caused disruptions in several subway and Skytrain operations in Bangkok, bringing traffic to a halt. Most train services resumed normal operations by Saturday morning.
During a meeting on Saturday regarding earthquake disaster updates and relief efforts, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated that the situation had stabilized, with the intensity of aftershocks gradually diminishing.
Meanwhile, in Myanmar, the casualty figures are staggering, with at least 1,002 fatalities, 2,376 injuries, and 30 individuals still missing, according to the Information Team of Myanmar's State Administration Council.
Rescue operations in Myanmar have intensified despite significant disruptions to transportation and communication networks.
The quake, originating near Sagaing, generated 12 aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 2.8 to 7.5, further complicating the conditions in the affected areas.
The devastation is extensive, particularly in regions such as Mandalay, Bago, Magway, northeastern Shan State, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw.
As rescue teams and authorities tirelessly work to support those affected by this disaster, Myanmar faces a formidable challenge in recovering from one of its most severe earthquakes in recent history.
