A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and parts of Thailand early Friday morning, causing widespread destruction and panic. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the epicentre was located near Mandalay, Myanmar, with tremors felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand. The disaster has left hundreds feared dead and many more injured as buildings collapsed and infrastructure suffered severe damage.
In Bangkok, a partially constructed high-rise collapsed, trapping numerous workers inside. Witnesses described terrifying scenes as tremors shook the ground, sending people running into the streets. Thai emergency responders are working tirelessly to rescue those trapped under the debris.
March 29, 2025 (updated) – International Aid Mobilizes
As rescue operations continue, Myanmar has reported significant casualties, particularly in regions closest to the epicentre. Hospitals in Mandalay are overwhelmed with injured residents, and aftershocks continue to rattle the region. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has labelled the quake one of the most devastating disasters in Myanmar’s recent history.
The government of Thailand has deployed military and emergency response teams to assist in relief efforts, especially in heavily affected urban areas like Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
India has launched "Operation Brahma", a humanitarian mission to aid the affected areas. According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, a C-130J transport aircraft carrying 15 tonnes of relief supplies, including tents, food, and medical aid, landed in Yangon early Saturday morning.
March 30, 2025 (updated) – Death Toll Rises, Aftershocks Continue
Severe aftershocks have complicated search and rescue efforts, leading to further damage in already affected areas. The IFRC has stated that Myanmar is experiencing one of the worst humanitarian crises in decades, with many rural villages completely cut off from assistance.
India’s Operation Brahma has expanded, with two IAF C-130J aircraft delivering additional relief supplies to Naypyitaw. Meanwhile, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced a $2 million emergency relief package and is assessing further support.
March 31, 2025 (updated) – Global Support Grows
The confirmed death toll has surpassed 2,000, with thousands still missing. International aid organizations, including the United Nations (UN) and the International Rescue Committee (IRC), have called for urgent action to ensure aid reaches those in need.
India has stepped up its relief efforts, with two IAF C-17 aircraft delivering a 118-member Indian Army Field Hospital Team along with over 60 tonnes of medical supplies. Indian Naval Ships Satpura and Savitri have docked in Yangon, delivering an additional 40 tonnes of humanitarian aid.
April 1, 2025 (updated) – Rebuilding Efforts Begin
As the world shifts focus from immediate rescue operations to long-term recovery, international aid continues to arrive. India’s Operation Brahma has dispatched additional relief, with Indian Naval Ship Gharial carrying 442 metric tonnes of food aid to Myanmar.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has begun assessing the long-term damage and planning rehabilitation efforts for displaced families. Meanwhile, search-and-rescue teams in Bangkok continue to recover bodies from collapsed buildings.
The disaster has prompted global calls for solidarity, as humanitarian organizations emphasize the need for continued aid. Relief efforts are expected to intensify in the coming weeks, with governments and NGOs working together to help affected communities rebuild their lives.