Naypyidaw, Mar 28 (V7N) – A 7.7-magnitude earthquake has rocked Myanmar, causing widespread destruction, including the collapse of the historic British-era Ava Bridge. Built 91 years ago, the bridge, also known as the Old Shanggai Bridge, connected the Ava and Shanggai regions.

Video: 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Myanmar, Sparks Emergency in Thailand

The powerful quake struck at 12:20 PM local time on Friday, with its epicenter 12 kilometers from Sagaing, at a depth of 10 kilometers, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The tremor caused several buildings to collapse in Naypyidaw and Mandalay, Myanmar's two major cities. Roads are blocked, and roofs have fallen off buildings, as seen in footage circulating in the media.

The earthquake was felt strongly in neighboring countries, including:

  • Bangladesh

  • India

  • Laos

  • Thailand

  • China

Authorities in Myanmar are yet to provide details on casualties and damages, but emergency response teams have been deployed to assess the situation. Rescue efforts are ongoing, and further tremors or aftershocks remain a possibility.

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