Tremors were felt across the region from Bangkok and Chiang Mai in Thailand. The damage was catastrophic, with videos popping up on the net showing buildings crashing and infrastructure getting damaged in both countries.
Major Structural Damage Reported
From the initial reports, one worrying development was that an under-construction building collapsed in the Chatuchak Market in Bangkok. Videos from social media show the moment the structure failed, as frightened pedestrians fled for their lives. In Myanmar, the historic Ava Bridge, a major link connecting the Ava and the Sagaing regions, also partially collapsed due to the impact of the quake.
Residents in both countries over panic with huge tremors, pouring out of buildings onto open grounds for safety. With assessments underway to determine the extent of the damage, emergency response units have already been dispatched to affected areas.
Aftershocks Safety Measures
Little over a dozen minutes after the main shock, another 6.4-magnitude aftershock rattled Myanmar’s Sagaing region, fuelling the fears of further devastation. There was no tsunami warning, indicating that notwithstanding the mighty event, coastal areas may be spared.
The Thailand Meteorological Department reported tremors felt in various parts of the country, especially in high-rise buildings throughout Bangkok. People reported shaking for a couple of seconds, with some swaying of structures due to seismic waves.
Rescue Teams and Authorities
Emergency teams have been dispatched in Myanmar for their inspection on damage reports from Mandalay, Sagaing, and neighbouring areas. The government has urged residents to stay alert to aftershocks and follow safety protocols.
The disaster response teams in Thailand are monitoring the situation, focusing on Bangkok, where safety still poses a concern over building stability affected by the quake. Officials continue to advise residents against entering those buildings until safety assessments can be conducted.
On the Historical Value of the Ava Bridge
Sustaining severely damaged status, the Ava Bridge is one of the most historically important bridges of Myanmar. Built during the British colonial period, it serves as a major link connecting Ava (Inwa) with Sagaing, forming an important transport link for the local peoples. Damage assessments are still ongoing, and the expected collapse will have a great impact.
Ongoing rescue activities are underway, meanwhile both Myanmar and Thailand are on alert for possible aftershocks. Authorities are advising residents in the affected areas to remain on their guard and report any structural damage to the relevant local authorities. Although no tsunami warning has been given, experts say that there is a possibility that aftershocks could keep coming and, along with them, danger.
Yet the full effects of the earthquake continue to be unfolding, with updates expected as authorities carry on with their assessment. source hindustantimes
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