Myanmar: A major earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck Myanmar on Friday, sending powerful tremors across Thailand, Bangladesh, and eastern India. The Thai government has declared a state of emergency in Bangkok as authorities assess the damage to buildings and infrastructure.

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has triggered a state of emergency in Bangkok, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on Friday. The tremors caused widespread damage in the Thai capital, including the collapse of a 30-storey under-construction skyscraper, while the quake was also felt in Bangladesh and eastern India.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra confirmed the emergency measures after reports of collapsed structures and widespread panic. One of the most significant incidents was the collapse of a 30-storey skyscraper under construction in the northern part of the city.

Bangladesh and eastern India feel the tremors

In Bangladesh, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake was felt across Dhaka, Chattogram, and other regions. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department reported that the quake's epicentre was in Mandalay, Myanmar, near the country’s border. No casualties or major damage have been reported so far.

In India, tremors were reported in Kolkata and Imphal, causing panic in some areas, particularly in Thangal Bazar, Imphal, where several old multi-storey buildings are located. However, officials confirmed that there was no immediate damage.

Epicentre and seismic data

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicentre was 16 km north-northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, at a depth of 10 km.

The quake is classified as a major seismic event, with aftershocks likely in the coming hours. Authorities across affected regions have urged residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks and structural hazards.

Rescue and response efforts underway

Emergency response teams in Bangkok are assessing the structural damage, and residents have been advised to avoid damaged buildings and high-rise structures. In Bangladesh and eastern India, authorities are monitoring the situation closely, though no immediate intervention has been required.

With aftershocks expected, officials in Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India are on high alert as they work to ensure public safety in the aftermath of the quake.