Over 1,100 Dead in Afghanistan Earthquake; Rescue Operations Underway

Post by : Monika

Photo: Reuters

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.0 struck eastern Afghanistan, causing widespread damage, destruction, and loss of life. The epicenter of the quake was in the mountainous provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar, regions known for their rugged terrain and remote villages.

The earthquake struck around midnight on Sunday, a time when most people were asleep, making the disaster even more dangerous. Following the main earthquake, there were at least five aftershocks, which added to the destruction and increased fear among survivors.

According to the Afghan Red Crescent Society, more than 1,100 people have lost their lives due to the earthquake, while over 3,200 have been injured. The disaster has also destroyed more than 8,000 homes,

leaving thousands of people without shelter. Many families are now living in the open, exposed to the elements, and struggling to find food, water, and medical care. The loss of homes and infrastructure has made daily life extremely difficult for the people in the affected areas.

Rescue Efforts

Rescue efforts began immediately after the earthquake, with teams of local Taliban forces and humanitarian organizations working tirelessly to reach the most affected villages. However, the mountainous terrain has made it difficult to access some areas, and damaged roads have slowed the delivery of aid. In many places, helicopters have been used to transport the injured to hospitals and bring in essential supplies such as food, water, medicine, and tents.

Many survivors are still living in open spaces because their homes were destroyed or unsafe due to aftershocks. Relief teams are working to provide temporary shelters, but the scale of the disaster means that resources are limited.

In addition to physical injuries, people are experiencing extreme stress and trauma from the loss of family members, homes, and possessions. Mental health support is being organized alongside medical aid, but reaching all affected communities remains a challenge.

International Assistance

The earthquake has drawn attention and support from the international community. Countries such as the United Kingdom, India, China, United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, and Iran have pledged aid to help the victims. The United Kingdom has committed £1 million (approximately $1.35 million) in emergency support, which will be provided through trusted partners to ensure the funds reach the people who need them most.

The United Nations and other global humanitarian organizations are also stepping in to provide assistance. These organizations are sending medical supplies, food, tents, and hygiene kits to affected areas.

Health teams are working to prevent disease outbreaks, which are a common problem after natural disasters. They are also helping treat injuries, provide vaccinations, and supply clean water to prevent illness in camps for displaced people.

Impact on Children and Vulnerable Groups

Children, elderly people, and disabled individuals are especially vulnerable during disasters like this. Many children have been separated from their families or have lost parents, creating a need for temporary care and protection. Organizations like UNICEF have highlighted the urgent need for child-focused support, including safe shelters, nutritious food, and access to education.

Women and pregnant mothers are also at high risk. Displacement and lack of clean water, food, and medical facilities make it difficult to maintain proper hygiene and receive prenatal care. Aid agencies are providing special kits for mothers and babies, but the demand far exceeds the available supplies.

Challenges in Relief Work

The earthquake has exposed weaknesses in Afghanistan’s infrastructure and healthcare system, which were already fragile before the disaster. Roads, bridges, and communication networks in remote areas were not strong enough to withstand natural disasters,

making it hard for rescue teams to reach isolated villages. Many hospitals in the region lack sufficient medical staff, equipment, and medicines to treat the large number of injured people.

Furthermore, recent cuts in international aid, including a reduction in U.S. funding, have made it more difficult for local authorities and humanitarian organizations to respond effectively. Despite these challenges, organizations are working round the clock to bring relief to those in need. They are coordinating with local authorities, volunteers, and community leaders to prioritize aid distribution to the most vulnerable people first.

Stories of Survival

Amid the destruction, stories of survival and resilience have emerged. Families have dug through rubble to find loved ones trapped under collapsed homes. In some villages, neighbors have worked together to clear debris and rescue people before emergency teams arrived. These acts of bravery show the strength and determination of local communities, even in the face of extreme danger.

One survivor, a young mother, recounted how she carried her children out of their collapsed home in the middle of the night. She described the fear and chaos as buildings shook and roofs fell. She and her children are now living in a temporary shelter, waiting for food, clean water, and medical help. Stories like hers reflect the human cost of the earthquake and the urgent need for continued assistance.

Health Concerns

After a disaster of this magnitude, health risks increase. Injuries from the earthquake, combined with exposure to harsh weather and crowded temporary shelters, create a high risk of disease outbreaks. Medical teams are monitoring for infections such as diarrhea, respiratory illnesses, and skin infections, which are common after natural disasters.

Mental health is also a major concern. Survivors are experiencing anxiety, trauma, and depression due to the loss of loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. Psychologists and social workers are working to provide counseling and emotional support, especially for children who have witnessed the devastation.

Coordination of Aid

Coordination between local authorities, international organizations, and volunteers is essential to ensure aid reaches those who need it most. Relief teams are mapping affected areas, identifying the most damaged villages, and distributing resources accordingly.

Efforts are being made to reach remote communities that are cut off due to landslides, damaged roads, or other obstacles.

Helicopters and trucks are transporting food, water, medical supplies, and temporary shelters to these hard-to-reach locations. Aid agencies are also working to set up mobile clinics and temporary schools to restore some normalcy to affected communities. Despite logistical challenges, these efforts are vital to prevent further loss of life and suffering.

Long-Term Recovery

The earthquake is not only a humanitarian crisis but also a challenge for long-term recovery. Rebuilding homes, schools, hospitals, and roads will take years and require substantial funding. Many families have lost their livelihoods, such as farms, shops, and small businesses, making economic recovery a major concern.

International support will be critical in helping Afghanistan rebuild. Donors, governments, and organizations are being called on to provide funding for reconstruction, healthcare, education, and livelihood programs. Sustainable recovery will require careful planning to ensure communities are stronger and better prepared for future disasters.

Environmental and Safety Concerns

The earthquake has also triggered landslides in several mountainous areas, further endangering communities and blocking access routes. Rescue teams are taking precautions to avoid additional accidents, but unstable terrain makes the work slow and risky. Authorities are warning people to stay away from unsafe buildings and to take shelter in open spaces until areas are deemed safe.

The earthquake in eastern Afghanistan has caused immense loss of life, injuries, and destruction of property. Rescue operations continue, but challenges such as mountainous terrain, damaged infrastructure, and limited resources make the situation extremely difficult.

The international community’s support, including aid from countries and humanitarian organizations, is crucial to provide immediate relief and help Afghanistan recover. Long-term reconstruction, healthcare support, and protection for children and vulnerable groups will remain critical priorities in the coming months.

Despite the tragedy, the resilience and courage of survivors and rescue teams demonstrate that communities can come together to overcome even the most devastating disasters. Continued attention, support, and funding are essential to ensure that those affected can rebuild their lives and recover from this calamity.

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