A devastating earthquake has struck Afghanistan’s eastern province of Kunar, causing huge destruction and loss of lives. According to Taliban officials, the earthquake has now claimed the lives of 1,457 people, and over 3,394 others are injured. The disaster has also destroyed more than 6,700 homes, leaving many people homeless and in urgent need of help.
The earthquake hit on August 31 at around 11:47 pm local time, with a magnitude of 6.0. It shook the region at a depth of just eight kilometers, causing widespread damage in Kunar and nearby Nangarhar. The tough mountainous terrain and frequent landslides are making rescue work even harder for disaster teams.
Rescue workers are still searching through the debris to find trapped survivors and recover bodies. Thousands are hurt and suffering from a shortage of water, food, and medical supplies. Taliban authorities say they have started providing aid to affected families and reopened roads to reach remote areas. They also mention that rescue teams from several countries have joined the effort.
However, many aid workers and local residents say rescue and relief efforts are moving slowly due to the difficult terrain and damaged roads. International organizations like the Red Cross and the World Health Organization are sending help, along with supplies from India, Japan, Iran, and Turkey. Still, delays in reaching some regions are holding up the delivery of essential supplies and medical aid.
Afghanistan is especially vulnerable to earthquakes because it lies on multiple fault lines where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Its mountainous landscape also increases the chance of landslides, which further complicate rescue operations.
India has shown support for Afghanistan during this crisis. On September 1, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, to express condolences and offer help. India has already sent 1,000 family tents to Kabul and is moving 15 tons of food aid to Kunar. Additional relief supplies will be sent starting tomorrow as part of India’s efforts to stand with Afghanistan in this difficult time.
This tragic earthquake highlights the urgent need for international support to help those affected rebuild and recover. Rescue teams and aid agencies continue working tirelessly to reach every corner and save lives.
