On March 28, at 12:53 PM, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed that a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck with its epicenter near Sagaing city. The earthquake caused the collapse of the old Sagaing Bridge and resulted in significant damage to buildings and infrastructure in both Mandalay and Sagaing regions, according to local residents.
The earthquake was felt across Myanmar, with particularly strong impacts in the central regions. In Aungban town, a three-story building known as Hotel Aungban collapsed, with several vehicles trapped beneath the rubble, as confirmed by local residents. Reports from Mandalay also indicated multiple building collapses and structural damage throughout the city. The strong seismic activity has caused widespread concern among residents and authorities alike.
Authorities are currently assessing the extent of damage caused by the earthquake, and emergency response operations are underway. Local residents are advised to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks and take necessary safety precautions. Experts note that an earthquake of this magnitude poses significant risks to regional infrastructure and buildings, creating a concerning situation that requires immediate attention and response. The impact of this seismic event has highlighted the vulnerability of structures in the affected areas and the need for comprehensive damage assessment and recovery efforts.
