Massive Earthquake Strikes Thailand and Myanmar, High-Rise Collapses in Bangkok
Bangkok and parts of Myanmar were rocked by a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake on Friday, causing widespread destruction and panic. In the Thai capital, a high-rise building under construction collapsed, trapping at least 43 workers under the rubble. The number of casualties remains uncertain as rescue operations continue. Thailand's Prime Minister has declared a state of emergency in the city, mobilizing emergency response teams to the disaster-stricken area.
Fatalities Reported in Bangkok Building Collapse
Emergency responders in Bangkok confirmed that at least two people have died following the collapse of the high-rise building. Rescuers, working against time, have managed to pull seven survivors from the wreckage. Songwut Wangpon, a rescue worker at the scene, reported that efforts are ongoing to locate and save those still trapped beneath the debris.
Myanmar Mosque Partially Collapses, Claims Three Lives
In neighboring Myanmar, at least three people were killed when a mosque in the Bago region partially collapsed due to the earthquake. Witnesses in the town of Taungnoo described how worshippers were mid-prayer when the tremors struck. 'We were saying prayers when the shaking started... Three died on the spot,' an eyewitness told Reuters.
Stock Exchange of Thailand Halts Trading
The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) suspended all trading activities for the afternoon session on Friday following the earthquake. The bourse operator issued an official statement announcing the immediate suspension due to the tremors that shook Bangkok, citing concerns over market stability and safety.
Myanmar Hospital Overwhelmed with Casualties
In Myanmar's capital, a major hospital has been turned into a "mass casualty area," struggling to treat the injured. The earthquake, which struck northwest of Sagaing at a shallow depth, was followed minutes later by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock, exacerbating the crisis. Medical facilities across affected regions are being stretched to their limits as casualties continue to rise.
Myanmar's Junta Requests International Humanitarian Aid
In a rare move, Myanmar's ruling junta has appealed for international humanitarian assistance and declared a state of emergency in six regions. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing visited a hospital in Naypyidaw where earthquake victims were receiving treatment. The request for aid highlights the severity of the disaster as Myanmar struggles to manage the aftermath of one of the most powerful earthquakes to hit the region in recent history.
Rescue operations and relief efforts are ongoing across both countries, with authorities warning of potential aftershocks. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
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