The Sagaing Fault, a major geological fault line in Myanmar, has once again demonstrated its destructive potential. On March 28, 2025, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Sagaing, followed by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock.
The fault, which stretches approximately 1,200 kilometers through central Myanmar, is a strike-slip fault where tectonic plates slide horizontally past each other. This geological feature makes it one of the most active seismic zones in Southeast Asia.
The earthquake caused widespread devastation, including the collapse of the iconic Ava Bridge in Mandalay and significant damage to infrastructure in nearby regions. Tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand, where buildings swayed, and a high-rise under construction collapsed, leading to casualties.
Experts attribute the frequent seismic activity along the Sagaing Fault to its location at the boundary between the Indian Plate and the Burma microplate. The fault’s history includes several major earthquakes, such as the 1839 Ava earthquake, which caused extensive damage.
As Myanmar grapples with the aftermath of this disaster, the Sagaing Fault serves as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to earthquakes. Authorities are urging preparedness and international support to mitigate the impact of future seismic events.
