Bangladeshis in Myanmar safe after powerful quake, says envoy

NEWS DESK

All Bangladeshi citizens in Myanmar are safe following a powerful earthquake that struck the country on Friday, the Bangladesh ambassador in Yangon has said.

The quake, which measured between 7.2 and 7.7 in magnitude, was felt across northern Myanmar in the early afternoon, prompting people to rush out of buildings in search of safety.

Tremors were also felt in parts of Bangladesh, including Dhaka and Chattogram, though there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

In Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city and close to the epicentre, the earthquake damaged parts of the former royal palace and several buildings, according to images shared on social media. In the nearby Sagaing region, a 90-year-old bridge reportedly collapsed.

The US Geological Survey and regional monitoring agencies said the quake struck at a relatively shallow depth, increasing the potential for damage.

Neighbouring Thailand also reported tremors, though no major damage has been confirmed.

Authorities in Bangladesh say they are monitoring the situation and remain in contact with their counterparts in Myanmar.