Myanmar Experiences 468 Aftershocks Since March 28 Earthquake
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Synopsis
As of April 12, Myanmar has recorded a total of 468 aftershocks following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake on March 28. The disaster has resulted in significant casualties and raised concerns about construction safety in affected regions.
Key Takeaways
- 468 aftershocks noted in Myanmar post-quake.
- Casualties include 3,689 lives lost.
- Concerns over construction safety in Thailand.
- Investigation launched into contractor’s projects.
- Thailand's PM emphasizes legal standards for buildings.
Bangkok, April 12 (NationPress) A staggering 468 aftershocks have been documented in Myanmar and adjacent regions as of Saturday, following the intense 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the country on March 28.
As reported by the Thai Meteorological Department's Earthquake Observation Division, there were 184 aftershocks with magnitudes ranging from 1.0 to 2.9, 198 with magnitudes from 3.0 to 3.9, 73 with magnitudes between 4.0 and 4.9, and 13 with magnitudes from 5.0 to 5.9.
In Thailand, 21 mild aftershocks have also been recorded, mainly in the Mae Hong Son province, with magnitudes fluctuating between 1.0 and 5.9 since the quake.
The most recent aftershock in Myanmar was noted early Saturday morning, with no reported effects on Thailand, according to news sources.
This devastating earthquake has resulted in 3,689 fatalities and 5,020 injuries, with 139 individuals still unaccounted for in Myanmar as of Friday, according to the State Administration Council Information Team.
Moreover, the death toll in Thailand has reached 27, with 9 people injured and 67 others reported missing after the catastrophic event.
On Friday evening, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration announced that the collapsed site of the 30-story under-construction State Audit Office building in Chatuchak district, which collapsed in mere seconds during the earthquake, has a total of 103 victims, as reported by Nation Thailand.
In the wake of the destruction, the Thai government has ramped up its scrutiny of other construction projects linked to the Chinese contractor involved with the building.
Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has also directed various agencies to review all construction endeavors awarded to China Railway No. 10 Engineering Group.
"All relevant agencies have been tasked with investigating how many other projects this company is overseeing. All structures in Bangkok must adhere to legal standards. Safety is our utmost priority," PM Shinawatra stated.
She further emphasized that the collapsed building has resulted in loss of life and tarnished Thailand's reputation.
