Afghanistan has been shaken by yet another deadly natural disaster. A powerful earthquake hit the Hindu Kush region of Kunar province late last night, leaving widespread devastation in its wake. According to official sources, more than 800 people have lost their lives, while over 2,500 others have been injured. Authorities fear that the death toll will continue to rise as many people remain trapped under the rubble.
The Earthquake’s Impact
The tremor, measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale, struck at a shallow depth of just 8 kilometers, which intensified the destruction. Districts including Nurgal, Suki, Watapur, Manogi, and Chape-Dar were among the worst hit. Entire villages have been reduced to ruins—some homes partially collapsed while others were flattened to the ground.
A Humanitarian Crisis
Witnesses report that survivors are desperately digging through debris with bare hands in search of loved ones. Hospitals are overwhelmed, with insufficient ambulances, medicines, and medical supplies to treat the injured. Thousands of families have been left homeless, forced to spend the night under the open sky. Photos and videos circulating on social media show people crying amidst the ruins and carrying injured relatives to safety.
Why This Region is Vulnerable
Seismologists explain that the Hindu Kush mountain belt is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone regions. It lies at the collision zone of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates, making it highly susceptible to frequent and intense quakes. The country previously suffered a devastating 6.3 magnitude quake in 2023, which claimed hundreds of lives.
Calls for International Aid
Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government has limited resources and is struggling to conduct effective rescue operations. The United Nations has pledged emergency support and is preparing to dispatch assessment teams. Several humanitarian organizations have also announced plans to deliver food, clean water, medical supplies, and temporary shelters.
Struggle for Survival
For the Afghan people, this disaster is not only about lives lost but also about survival in the days ahead. Entire livelihoods have vanished overnight, leaving families with no shelter, food, or income. With an already fragile economy and weak healthcare system, the earthquake has dealt yet another crushing blow to the nation.
Nich