Highlights:
- A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Afghanistan on Sunday night.
- Over 800 people have died and more than 3,000 injured.
- Kunar province is the worst affected area.
- Taliban government admits lack of equipment and resources.
- They have called for international aid to carry out rescue missions.
Deadly Earthquake Strikes Eastern Afghanistan
Afghanistan has once again faced a devastating earthquake. On Sunday late at night, a 6.0 magnitude quake struck the eastern region of the country. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the Afghanistan Earthquake hit at 11:47 pm local time, with its epicenter located 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad. The depth of the quake was only 8 kilometers, which caused even greater destruction.
Heavy Loss of Life and Injuries
So far, reports confirm that more than 800 people have died and over 3,000 have been injured. The most serious damage and casualties have been reported from Kunar province. Afghan authorities fear the death toll could rise further as many areas remain out of reach due to the mountainous terrain.
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Most victims were asleep at the time of the quake and became trapped under collapsed houses. The Afghan Information Ministry has stated that several districts—Nur Gal, Sawki, Watapur, Manogi, and Chapa Dara—have been badly affected.
Aftershocks Add to the Disaster
Following the main quake, at least three aftershocks were felt, ranging from 4.5 to 5.2 in magnitude. These repeated tremors caused additional damage and made rescue operations even more difficult. Landslides triggered by the quake and flooding have also blocked several roads.
Struggles in Rescue Operations
The Taliban government has admitted that conducting rescue operations in such remote mountainous regions is extremely challenging. Local administration and residents are trying to help with limited resources. In some areas, helicopters are being used to airlift the injured, since many roads are blocked by landslides and floods.
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid explained that while local teams and nearby provinces are sending help, the situation is far beyond their capacity.
Taliban Appeals for International Assistance
The Taliban authorities have openly said that they do not have enough equipment or resources to manage large-scale rescue operations. They have now called on international donor agencies and relief organizations to provide urgent support.
The Afghan government is urging the world community to send assistance so that trapped survivors can be rescued and medical help can reach the injured.
Source: Reuters
