Afghanistan Struck by Powerful Aftershock Following Devastating Earthquake that Claimed Over 1,400 Lives
A powerful earthquake has struck eastern Afghanistan, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. The initial quake, measuring 6.0 in magnitude, occurred on Sunday and has resulted in over 1,400 fatalities and approximately 3,000 injuries, according to the Taliban government. Just two days later, a magnitude-5.2 aftershock further complicated rescue efforts, as landslides blocked access to remote areas. The Taliban has called for international assistance, with the UN and the UK pledging aid to support the affected communities.
Rescue Operations Underway Amidst Challenges
Rescue efforts in the aftermath of the initial quake have faced significant obstacles due to landslides that have obstructed roads, making it difficult for rescue teams to reach those in need. Helicopters have been deployed to search for survivors trapped beneath the rubble in remote villages, particularly in Kunar province, where the majority of casualties occurred. The Taliban government, which is recognized only by Russia, has appealed for international support to aid in the recovery efforts. The United Nations has released emergency funds, and the UK has committed £1 million (approximately $1.3 million) in aid to assist the victims.
The aftershock on Tuesday, which struck at 12:29 PM local time, was recorded by the US Geological Survey (USGS) as being shallow, with its epicenter located 34 kilometers from Jalalabad, Afghanistan’s fifth-largest city. Although the aftershock was felt strongly in the Sawkai district, one of the hardest-hit areas, there have been no immediate reports of additional damage or casualties.
Survivor Accounts Highlight the Tragedy
Survivors of the earthquake have shared harrowing accounts of their experiences. Bas Marjana, a resident of Kunar province, described the moment the quake struck while she and her family were asleep. She recounted how she was rescued from the debris of her home, but tragically, several family members, including eight grandchildren and her daughter-in-law, were killed. Her story reflects the profound loss experienced by many in the region.
Another survivor, Nader Khan, expressed his grief after losing two sons and two daughters-in-law in the disaster. He managed to save two of his grandchildren but remains uncertain about their whereabouts. Khan, who suffered injuries himself, lamented the loss of his family members and the uncertainty surrounding their fates. These personal stories underscore the widespread impact of the earthquake on families and communities.
Humanitarian Response and Ongoing Needs
The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan has been exacerbated by the earthquake, as the country is already grappling with severe drought and a significant hunger crisis. Aid organizations, including Save the Children and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), have mobilized to provide medical assistance and support to those affected. Save the Children has dispatched medical teams to Kunar province, where thousands are in urgent need of food, water, and shelter.
Dr. Noor Saba, a physician at Spinghar Medical in Jalalabad, reported that many of the patients admitted since the earthquake have sustained serious injuries. The hospital is experiencing an influx of patients, including women and children, requiring immediate medical attention. The urgent need for humanitarian aid is critical, as the country faces additional challenges due to recent aid cuts, particularly from the United States.
International Aid Efforts and Support
In response to the disaster, various countries have pledged support to Afghanistan. The UK’s Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, announced that aid would be channeled through established partners, including the UN Population Fund and the International Red Cross. India has also contributed by sending 1,000 tents to Kabul and facilitating the transport of food supplies to Kunar province. Additionally, China and Switzerland have expressed their commitment to providing assistance.
As the situation continues to unfold, the need for coordinated international support remains crucial to address the immediate and long-term needs of the affected populations in Afghanistan. The earthquake has struck at a time when the country is already facing significant humanitarian challenges, making the response to this disaster all the more urgent.
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