Deadly Quake Strikes Eastern Afghanistan
A magnitude-6 earthquake rattled the mountainous provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar around midnight local time, claiming at least 812 lives and injuring over 2,800 residents. The seismic shock hit at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, intensifying the tremor’s impact on communities already perched on steep slopes.
Rescue Efforts Hampered by Terrain and Weather
Remote villages remain cut off as rescuers battle rough terrain and unseasonal snowfall. With roads buried under debris and landslides blocking key routes, aid convoys have taken days to reach the hardest-hit areas. Local authorities warn that valuable time is slipping away for those trapped under rubble.
Government Calls for International Support
Sharafat Zaman, spokesperson for the Health Ministry in Kabul, said the Afghan interim government is stretched thin, facing simultaneous crises from reduced foreign aid to mass deportations of Afghans by neighboring countries. "We need immediate assistance because so many people have lost homes and loved ones," he said, urging the global community to step in.
A Student’s Ordeal
Ziaul Haq Mohammadi, a student at Al-Falah University in Jalalabad, recalls the moment the ground shook beneath him. "I tried to stand, but the tremor was so powerful it knocked me down. We spent the entire night fearing another aftershock," he said, highlighting the psychological toll on survivors.
What Lies Ahead
- Securing emergency shelters and medical supplies for displaced families
- Clearing access routes to reach remote communities
- Coordinating long-term reconstruction and mental health support
As Afghanistan grapples with heightened humanitarian needs, global aid and collaboration will be crucial to saving lives and rebuilding resilient communities.
Reference(s):
Earthquake kills over 800, injures at least 2,800 in Afghanistan
cgtn.com
