Afghanistan is facing another devastating tragedy after a 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck the eastern region of the country. The powerful tremor flattened villages, destroyed public facilities, and severely damaged infrastructure. At least 1,400 people have been confirmed dead, while thousands of others are injured, many in critical condition. International organizations warn that this disaster could spiral into a prolonged humanitarian crisis if the world does not act swiftly.
Casualties and Destruction
Local authorities reported that thousands of homes collapsed within seconds. Survivors rushed into the streets, many of them mourning family members lost beneath the rubble. Images circulating on social media show entire villages reduced to rubble, overcrowded hospitals, and injured victims being treated outdoors due to the lack of available space.
A local official told reporters, “We don’t have enough medical staff or equipment. The victims keep coming, and we are overwhelmed.” The United Nations confirmed that urgent needs include medicines, ready-to-eat food, and emergency shelters.
Obstacles to Rescue Operations
Difficult Terrain
The epicenter of the quake lies in a mountainous area with limited road access. Rescue teams are forced to take dangerous routes, while many roads remain blocked by landslides. These conditions slow down the delivery of aid and the evacuation of victims.
Landmines
Afghanistan is still littered with landmines left behind from decades of war. This makes rescue efforts even more dangerous. The International Committee of the Red Cross noted, “Landmines are a huge obstacle. Every step can cost a life.”
Limited Healthcare Facilities
Hospitals in the affected region were not prepared for a disaster of this scale. With limited capacity, many victims are now being treated in makeshift tents. Medical workers from other cities have been dispatched, but supplies remain scarce.
International Response
Donor Commitments
Several countries have pledged support. The United Kingdom donated £1 million through the UN, while South Korea allocated USD 1 million for emergency relief. The UN and European Union jointly announced an additional USD 11 million to assist rescue operations. India and the United Arab Emirates also sent shipments of medicine, food, and tents.
Call for Greater Aid
Despite these pledges, humanitarian agencies warn that the support is far from sufficient. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stressed, “The needs on the ground are immense. Global support must increase immediately before conditions deteriorate further.”
Cross-Border Logistics
The UN urged neighboring countries to open logistical corridors to accelerate aid delivery. Pakistan and Iran have been asked to play a key role by facilitating land and air routes for humanitarian convoys.
Social and Economic Impact
Thousands Left Homeless
More than 20,000 people lost their homes and are now living in temporary shelters. Many spend nights in freezing conditions with no proper protection.
Children Among the Most Vulnerable
UNICEF warned that children are particularly at risk of malnutrition, infectious disease, and deep psychological trauma. “Every child here needs urgent support, not only today but for their future as well,” said a UNICEF representative.
Potential Long-Term Crisis
The earthquake threatens to create lasting damage to Afghanistan’s already fragile economy. Infrastructure collapse, rising food prices, and halted local trade could worsen poverty across the region.
Global Warnings
The UN Secretary-General called the tragedy “a test of global solidarity,” urging countries not to turn away from Afghanistan. “They need us now. Without global support, this disaster will leave scars for generations,” he declared.
In Europe, members of parliament have demanded larger budget allocations for emergency aid. In Asia, ASEAN nations expressed solidarity and readiness to contribute according to their capacities.
The Urgency of Quick Action
Experts emphasized that the first 72 hours after a disaster are critical. Every lost minute could mean more lives trapped under the rubble. The speed of the international response will determine how many victims can still be saved.
Humanitarian groups urged donors to provide funds not only for immediate relief but also for long-term reconstruction. “Rebuilding homes and infrastructure must be a priority so that communities can recover quickly,” said Human Rights Watch.
Glimmers of Hope
Despite the devastation, some rescue stories brought hope. A six-month-old baby was pulled alive from the rubble after being trapped for more than 30 hours. The story spread quickly on social media and became a symbol of resilience amid despair.
The international community now faces a defining question: will the world act decisively to help Afghanistan, or let this disaster stand as another dark chapter in global humanitarian failure?
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