Over 1,000 Injured as Rescue Teams Struggle to Reach Remote Villages After 6.0-Magnitude Quake
Key Facts at a Glance
- A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan near the Pakistan border late Sunday night.
- The quake hit provinces like Nangarhar and Kunar, with the epicenter near Jalalabad.
- The shallow depth of the quake made it extremely destructive.
- Over 500 people are confirmed dead, and more than 1,300 have been injured, according to early estimates.
- Many of the worst-hit areas are remote mountain villages, making rescue operations difficult.
- The Taliban-led government said it is still verifying casualty figures as communication is limited in several regions.
Why Was the Quake So Devastating?
- Shallow Depth: The earthquake occurred just 8 km below the surface, intensifying ground shaking.
- Remote Location: The quake struck hard-to-reach mountainous areas, slowing down emergency aid.
- Weak Infrastructure: Most homes are made of mud and wood, which collapse easily during tremors.
- Aftershocks: Several aftershocks were felt, including two with magnitudes above 5.0, increasing panic and damage.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
- Local volunteers, Taliban rescue teams, and humanitarian groups are working to clear debris and provide medical aid.
- Damaged roads and landslides are blocking access to some of the worst-affected villages.
- Emergency shelters, food, and medical supplies are being rushed to the area.
- There is growing concern about the safety of survivors still trapped under rubble.
Impact on Communities
- Entire villages have been reduced to rubble in some districts.
- Survivors are spending nights outdoors, fearing more aftershocks.
- Many families have lost homes, loved ones, and access to basic services like clean water and electricity.
What’s Next?
- Rescue operations are ongoing, but full damage assessment may take days.
- The government is urging international agencies to prepare for long-term humanitarian support.
- With communication lines down in several areas, accurate information is still emerging.
Summary Snapshot
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | 6.0‑Magnitude Earthquake |
| Location | Eastern Afghanistan, near Pakistan border |
| Time | Late Sunday night |
| Deaths | 500+ (estimated) |
| Injured | 1,000+ |
| Worst-hit areas | Nangarhar, Kunar, Nur Gul, Watpur, Chapadare |
| Response | Local & Taliban rescue teams, aid agencies |
The deadly earthquake in eastern Afghanistan has left hundreds dead and injured, with many still missing. As rescue teams race against time, the country faces a humanitarian crisis that may worsen without swift and coordinated global support.
