Powerful Earthquake Strikes Eastern Afghanistan, Hundreds Feared Dead
KABUL: A powerful 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Monday, leaving hundreds feared dead and injured as rescuers rushed to remote areas to save survivors trapped under rubble.
The tremor hit the rugged provinces of Kunar and Laghman, devastating entire villages and forcing helicopters to ferry the injured to hospitals. Early reports indicate widespread destruction, with mud and stone homes collapsing overnight.
Rising Death Toll
Afghanistan’s state-run Bakhtar News Agency (BNA) reported that around 250 people have been killed and more than 530 injured across multiple districts, including Noor Gul, Chawkay, Watapur, Mano Gai, and Chapa Dara.
Local broadcaster Tolo News cited disaster management officials confirming similar figures, warning that casualties could rise further as communication lines to remote areas remain disrupted.
Health ministry spokesperson Sharafat Zaman confirmed that dozens had died and over 400 people were already receiving treatment, with the final toll expected to increase.
Entire Villages Razed
Authorities said three villages in Kunar province were completely destroyed, while many others suffered significant damage. In one village alone, early reports indicated 30 fatalities and hundreds of injuries.
Images showed residents, soldiers, and medics carrying the wounded to ambulances, while helicopters transported the most critical patients.
No Foreign Assistance Yet
Afghanistan’s foreign office said that no foreign governments have yet provided assistance, even as the country struggles with humanitarian crises, including reduced aid and mass deportations of its citizens from neighboring states.
A Region Prone to Earthquakes
Afghanistan, located in the Hindu Kush mountain range where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, is highly vulnerable to earthquakes. Last year, a series of tremors in western Afghanistan killed over 1,000 people, highlighting the fragility of one of the world’s poorest nations.
Condolences Pour In
Pakistan’s Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal expressed grief, saying:
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of over 300 lives and the many injuries. My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims, and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.”
Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Rescuers continue to search for survivors amid fears that the death toll could climb sharply as more information comes in from isolated mountain villages.
