Thailand Earthquake Cripples Normal Life: Schools Shut, Train Services Suspended | 10 Points

Thailand Earthquake: A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, sending shockwaves across the region, including neighboring Thailand. The quake, which occurred at 1:20 PM local time, caused widespread damage, with strong tremors felt as far as Bangkok. 

In response to the widespread panic and damage caused by the tremors, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared a "state of emergency" in Bangkok. 

Thailand Earthquake in 10 Points 

7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Myanmar, Tremors Felt Across Region: A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar at 1:20 PM (local time) on March 28, 2025, with tremors reaching as far as Bangkok, Thailand. The quake's epicenter was located in Myanmar at coordinates 96.07°E, 21.93°N, and occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers.

Strong Tremors Impact Bangkok and Manipur: While the epicenter was in Myanmar, the quake caused significant shaking in Thailand's capital, Bangkok, as well as in Manipur and the entire northeast region of India. The strong tremors disrupted daily life, with many people rushing to evacuate buildings.

Schools and Train Services Shut Down in Thailand: Following the quake, schools across Bangkok were immediately shut down, and train services in the capital were suspended. 

Building Collapse in Bangkok: The earthquake led to the collapse of a high-rise building under construction in Bangkok. Emergency responders confirmed that at least two people were found dead, with dozens still missing under the rubble. The collapse created a massive plume of dust and trapped workers inside.

Mandalay and Sagaing Suffer Major Damage in Myanmar: In Myanmar, Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city, saw parts of the former royal palace and buildings damaged. The Sagaing region also reported significant destruction, including the collapse of a 90-year-old bridge, leaving many areas cut off from assistance.

Myanmar Declares State of Emergency in Six Regions: Myanmar’s military government declared a state of emergency in six regions, including Naypyitaw and Mandalay, following the earthquake and a subsequent 6.4 magnitude aftershock. The areas affected are difficult to access due to the ongoing civil war, complicating relief efforts.

Red Cross Highlights Challenges in Relief Operations: The Red Cross reported that downed power lines and blocked roads are hampering rescue efforts in the hardest-hit regions of Myanmar. The organization emphasized that significant damage had been caused, and humanitarian needs were still being assessed.

Thai Emergency Response to Building Collapse: Thai emergency responders continue to work at the site of the collapsed building in Bangkok. Rescue teams have confirmed three deaths and 90 people still missing. Emergency workers are sifting through rubble, and a crane collapse added to the complexity of the rescue operation.

Panic Grips Bangkok as People Rush for Safety: In the bustling Silom business district of Bangkok, office workers and residents fled buildings and gathered in nearby parks. Panic spread through the streets, with people visibly distressed. Tourists, including Paul Vincent from England, described scenes of chaos and panic as buildings swayed and water fell from rooftop pools.

Thailand Prime Minister Promises Immediate Relief: Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured the public that the government is taking all necessary steps to address the aftermath of the earthquake. She urged citizens to remain calm, warning of possible aftershocks, while Bangkok City Hall declared the capital a disaster zone.