A devastating 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Sunday night, flattening homes, triggering landslides, and leaving behind large-scale destruction. The tremors were felt across the border in Pakistan and as far as India, sparking panic in several cities.
Heavy Toll in Kunar and Nangarhar
According to Afghan officials, at least 800 people were killed and over 2,500 were injured in Kunar Province alone. In neighbouring Nangarhar, 12 people died and 255 were injured. Local authorities reported that entire mud-brick villages collapsed, leaving families trapped under rubble.
Many affected areas remain inaccessible due to blocked roads and poor communication networks, complicating rescue operations. Survivors described scenes of chaos, with children, women, and the elderly buried under debris.
Rescue Operations and Airlifts
The Taliban government confirmed that 40 helicopter sorties have already transported hundreds of injured to hospitals in Nangarhar. TOLOnews reported that more than 500 patients were flown to Jalalabad Regional Hospital as local facilities struggled to cope with the influx.
UN agencies warned that time is critical as remote mountainous villages remain cut off, while residents are digging through rubble with their bare hands in search of loved ones.
Pakistan’s Condolences and International Solidarity
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, extending condolences and prayers on behalf of Pakistan.
“Deeply saddened by the devastating earthquake in eastern Afghanistan… I extend my heartfelt condolences and prayers to the bereaved families,” he wrote on X, offering Pakistan’s support in rescue and relief efforts.
The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also voiced solidarity, pledging to “spare no effort to assist those in need.” Meanwhile, Iran offered humanitarian aid, including medical supplies.
Afghanistan’s Long Struggle with Disasters
Afghanistan lies on a major seismic fault line, making it highly vulnerable to earthquakes. Fragile mud homes and limited infrastructure further increase risks. This disaster comes as the country already faces humanitarian crises, with millions displaced by poverty, war, and recent mass deportations from neighbouring countries.
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