Afghanistan Earthquake: 800 People Die, 2,800 Injures

In Afghanistan, a devastating earthquake has claimed over 800 lives and injured at least 2,800 people. The midnight tremor, with a magnitude of 6, struck at a depth of 10 km. Helicopters are transporting the injured to hospitals as rescuers search through the debris of collapsed homes in remote mountainous areas.

The Taliban administration is already struggling with numerous humanitarian challenges. The earthquake's impact will further strain their resources. Sharafat Zaman, spokesperson for the health ministry in Kabul, has appealed for international aid to address the destruction caused by this disaster.

Impact on Remote Areas

The eastern provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar were hit hardest, with 812 fatalities reported. Rescuers face difficulties reaching isolated regions near the Pakistani border due to disrupted mobile networks. Many mudbrick homes on these slopes have crumbled under the quake's force.

Military rescue teams have been deployed across the affected areas. According to the defence ministry, 40 flights have evacuated 420 wounded and deceased individuals. In Kunar alone, three villages were completely destroyed, and many others suffered significant damage.

Humanitarian Aid Challenges

Humanitarian agencies highlight Afghanistan's ongoing crisis, with over half its population urgently needing aid according to U.N. estimates. Funding cuts are attributed to global crises and donor dissatisfaction with Taliban policies on women's rights, including restrictions on female aid workers.

This earthquake marks Afghanistan's third major natural disaster since the Taliban assumed control in 2021. The withdrawal of foreign forces led to reduced international funding, which previously constituted a significant portion of government finances.

International Response

No foreign governments have yet offered support for rescue or relief efforts. However, China has expressed willingness to provide assistance based on Afghanistan's needs and its own capacity. Meanwhile, U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres stated that their mission in Afghanistan is preparing to assist affected areas.

The country is prone to deadly earthquakes, especially in the Hindu Kush mountain range where tectonic plates converge. Almost two years after a powerful quake hit Herat city in the west, many villages remain in recovery and temporary shelters.