At Least 700 Killed In Myanmar Earthquake (Image @UNICEF)

Nyapyidaw, Myanmar: The massive 7.7 earthquake that struck Myanmar killed nearly 1000. The earthquake also hit neighbouring Thailand, leaving a trail of destruction. At least 1,670 were injured. The earthquake hit northwest of Sagaing, Myanmar, at 12:50 pm (0650 GMT) on Friday at a shallow depth of 10 km. It was followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock and a series of smaller tremors followed, minutes later.

Reportedly, the tremors felt across the region, shaking buildings from India to the west and China to the east, as well as Cambodia and Laos. Earlier, Myanmar’s military junta said in a statement this morning that the death count has reached 694, from both Myanmar and Thailand.

At 10 people in Thailand were taken to be killed primarily due to the collapse of a high-rise under construction near Bangkok’s Chatuchak market. Nearly 100 workers are feared to be trapped under the rubble.

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Nyapyidaw’s ongoing civil war, which was sparked by the military’s seizure of power, has severely weakened emergency services. The country was reportedly ill-equipped to handle a disaster such huge magnitude.

Myanmar’s Ava Bridge, a nearly 100-year-old structure spanning the Irrawaddy River from Sagaing, collapsed into the water during the quake. The destruction prompted a rare appeal for international aid from its isolated military regime. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing requested assistance from “any country, any organisation”.

India offered help. The Indian Air Force dispatched 15 tonnes of relief supplies, including tents, blankets, water purifiers, and essential medicines, from its Hindon air base to assist Myanmar.

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“Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a statement on Friday.

The European Union and the United States also pledged support. US President Donald Trump confirmed that Washington had been in contact with Myanmar authorities. “It’s a real bad one, and we will be helping,” he told reporters.