On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar, measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale. The earthquake’s epicentre was near the Sagaing-Mandalay border. Following the disaster, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) deployed its advanced earth imaging satellite, CARTOSAT-3, to assess the damage. The satellite captured images of the affected areas, including Mandalay and Sagaing, denoting destruction.
Earthquake Details
The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 km. It was followed by an aftershock of 6.4 magnitude. The epicentre was located at coordinates 22.013° N and 95.922° E. The tremors were felt across a wide area, impacting regions beyond Myanmar, including parts of Thailand.
CARTOSAT-3 Overview
CARTOSAT-3 is a third-generation satellite known for its high-resolution imaging capabilities. It was designed for earth observation and mapping. The satellite’s agility allows for rapid imaging of specific areas, making it ideal for disaster assessment.
Damage Assessment
The imagery captured by CARTOSAT-3 revealed extensive damage in Mandalay. Key landmarks such as the Sky Villa and Mahamuni Pagoda suffered severe structural damage. The University of Mandalay also experienced impacts. In Sagaing, the Ma Shi Khana Pagoda and several monasteries were notably affected.
Infrastructure Impact
The earthquake led to the complete collapse of the historic Ava Bridge over the Irrawaddy River. Ground ruptures and cracks were observed in the floodplains, indicating severe geological impacts. Many residential buildings and roads were also reported damaged.
Regional Effects
The earthquake’s shockwaves were strong enough to be felt in neighbouring countries. Residents in Chiang Mai, Thailand, reported damage due to the tremors. The widespread impact puts stress on the earthquake’s severity and the importance of rapid response and assessment.
Significance of Satellite Imagery
ISRO’s use of CARTOSAT-3 for post-disaster analysis demonstrates the crucial role of satellite technology in emergency response. The high-resolution images provide vital information for assessing damage and planning recovery efforts. This capability is essential for timely humanitarian assistance.
Future Implications
The earthquake’s aftermath marks the need for enhanced infrastructure resilience in earthquake-prone regions. It also emphasises the importance of monitoring and preparedness to mitigate future disaster impacts. Satellite technology will continue to play a key role in these efforts.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of earthquakes on urban infrastructure and community resilience.
- Explain the role of satellite technology in disaster management and recovery efforts.
- What are the geological factors contributing to earthquakes in Southeast Asia? Discuss with examples.
- Comment on the socio-economic implications of natural disasters like earthquakes on affected regions.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of earthquakes on urban infrastructure and community resilience.
- Earthquakes can cause severe damage to buildings, bridges, and roads, leading to infrastructure loss.
- Urban areas often have dense populations, increasing vulnerability and complicating emergency response efforts.
- Community resilience is tested as social networks and support systems are disrupted, impacting recovery speed.
- Post-earthquake rebuilding can lead to improved infrastructure if lessons are learned and better standards are implemented.
- Long-term psychological effects on communities can hinder resilience and recovery, necessitating mental health support.
2. Explain the role of satellite technology in disaster management and recovery efforts.
- Satellite imagery provides real-time data for damage assessment, helping prioritize response efforts.
- High-resolution images allow for detailed analysis of affected areas, identifying critical infrastructure needs.
- Satellite technology enhances situational awareness for emergency responders, improving coordination and efficiency.
- It aids in monitoring environmental changes post-disaster, essential for long-term recovery planning.
- Satellite communication systems facilitate information sharing, crucial for effective disaster response across regions.
3. What are the geological factors contributing to earthquakes in Southeast Asia? Discuss with examples.
- Southeast Asia is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area with high tectonic activity due to plate boundaries.
- Subduction zones, such as the one near Sumatra, lead to intense seismic events, exemplified by the 2004 tsunami earthquake.
- Fault lines, like the Saguenay Fault in Myanmar, create stress accumulation, resulting in earthquakes when released.
- Volcanic activity in the region can also trigger earthquakes, as seen in Indonesia’s volcanic eruptions.
- Geological studies show that urbanization and land use changes can exacerbate earthquake impacts on communities.
4. Comment on the socio-economic implications of natural disasters like earthquakes on affected regions.
- Natural disasters lead to immediate economic losses, crippling local businesses and increasing unemployment.
- Infrastructure damage disrupts essential services, impacting education, healthcare, and transportation systems.
- Long-term recovery requires financial investment, often diverting resources from other development needs.
- Social inequality can worsen post-disaster as vulnerable populations struggle to recover compared to wealthier groups.
- Natural disasters can lead to migration, altering demographics and potentially straining resources in receiving areas.
