ISRO's CARTOSAT-3 Satellite Captures Extensive Damage From Myanmar's Earthquake

ISRO's CARTOSAT-3 satellite captured the aftermath of the Myanmar earthquake on March 28, highlighting extensive damage. The images, taken a day after the quake hit, showed significant destruction in Mandalay and Sagaing cities. By comparing with images taken before the disaster on March 18, ISRO conducted a detailed damage assessment. CARTOSAT-3's advanced imaging capabilities played a crucial role in this analysis.

The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.7, followed by an aftershock of 6.4, caused widespread damage, especially near the Sagaing-Mandalay border. The epicenter was pinpointed at 22.013° N 95.922° E, at a shallow depth of 10 km, exacerbating the impact. ISRO's statement revealed the quake's severity, noting the collapse of vital infrastructure and buildings in Myanmar's second-largest city, Mandalay, and its surroundings.

Significant landmarks in Mandalay, such as Sky Villa, Phayani Pagoda, Mahamuni Pagoda, and Ananda Pagoda, along with the University of Mandalay, suffered considerable damage. In Sagaing, the Ma Shi Khana Pagoda, numerous monasteries, and other structures were also damaged. The historic Ava (InnWa) Bridge over the Irrawaddy River near Inn Wa City completely collapsed, with additional observations of cracks and ground ruptures around the river's flood plains, indicating liquefaction.

The quake's ripple effects were felt beyond Myanmar's borders, with tremors reaching Chiang Mai and northern Thailand. Residents in these areas reported damage, showcasing the earthquake's far-reaching impact. "The tremors were felt not only in Myanmar but also in neighbouring countries. The shockwaves were strong enough to be felt as far as Chiang Mai and northern parts of Thailand, where residents reported damages," stated ISRO.

This disaster not only highlights the vulnerability of infrastructure to natural calamities but also demonstrates the critical role of satellite imagery in assessing damage and facilitating recovery efforts. ISRO's quick response and the capabilities of CARTOSAT-3 have provided valuable insights into the extent of the earthquake's destruction, aiding in the ongoing recovery and aid missions in the affected regions.