A devastating earthquake in Mandalay has resulted in the confirmed deaths of over 80 Buddhist monks who were taking examinations inside the U Hla Thein Building when it collapsed. The incident occurred yesterday at 12:52 PM when a powerful earthquake struck the city, causing the entire right wing of the building to collapse while approximately 600 monks were inside taking their examinations. The collapse trapped many monks under the rubble, leading to significant casualties.
Rescue operations are currently ongoing, with Myanmar Social Rescue Organization and fire department teams working tirelessly to search for and rescue monks who may still be trapped under the debris. According to officials from the Mandalay Division Social Rescue Committee, the death toll could potentially rise as rescue efforts continue. The collapse occurred at the Pariyatti Thathana Hita Association (U Hla Thein) Building, which was being used as an examination center for Zone-2 in Maharaungmye Township.
The tragic incident took place during the 2025 monastic examinations period, affecting one of the major examination centers in Mandalay. The earthquake has also caused damage to other buildings throughout Mandalay, though the collapse of the U Hla Thein Building, while filled with examining monks, has resulted in the most significant loss of life. Rescue teams continue their efforts to locate and save any remaining survivors trapped within the collapsed structure.
