Kunar province, Afghanistan – A powerful magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Afghanistan’s Kunar province, leaving a trail of destruction and death in its wake. The disaster has claimed over 2,200 lives, with many more feared dead or injured.
The earthquake’s impact is exacerbated by the region’s remote location, treacherous terrain, and limited access to aid.
Survivors are struggling to cope with the loss of loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. Gul Rahim, a survivor, lost 63 members of his family, including his five-year-old daughter Fatima.
“We were asleep at home when, at midnight, the earthquake struck. All the houses collapsed and everyone was screaming,” he recounted, his voice trembling with grief. “I managed to get out, but my youngest daughter was trapped inside, crying, ‘Father, get me out of here!’ By the time we reached her, she had passed away.”
The earthquake has left thousands of people without shelter, food, or access to basic necessities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has appealed for $4 million in funds to provide life-saving health interventions and support water, sanitation, and hygiene activities for residents. “They need food assistance, safety, and medicine for the children,” volunteer Abdulrahman Sharafat said.
The disaster highlights Afghanistan’s vulnerability to natural disasters, particularly earthquakes. The country sits where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, making it prone to powerful earthquakes.
In recent years, Afghanistan has experienced several devastating earthquakes, including a magnitude 6.0 earthquake in the western province of Herat in October 2023, which resulted in over 2,000 deaths.
As the international community responds to this crisis, it is essential to prioritize the needs of affected communities. The provision of emergency shelter, food, and medical care is critical to saving lives and preventing further suffering. The WHO’s appeal for funds is a crucial step in addressing the humanitarian needs of those affected.
The earthquake in Afghanistan serves as a stark reminder of the country’s ongoing humanitarian challenges. The international community must work together to provide support and assistance to those affected, while also addressing the underlying vulnerabilities that exacerbate the impact of natural disasters.
In the face of such devastation, the resilience and solidarity of the Afghan people are a testament to their strength and determination. As the world responds to this crisis, it is essential to recognize the importance of humanitarian aid and the need for sustained support to help Afghanistan recover and rebuild.