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Afghanistan’s Earthquake: The death toll rises to 2000 on Sunday after a devastating earthquake struck in western Afghanistan. On Saturday, an earthquake took place measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale, strike in Afghanistan followed by eight powerful aftershocks. The earth quake epicenter was situated 30 kilometers (19 miles) northwest of Herat.
Afghanistan’s Earthquake Death Toll Rises
The aftermath of the earthquake saw a sharp increase in the death toll. A spokes person from Taliban government said that the death toll has crossed 2000. Exceeding 1,000, as rescue efforts began amidst the ruins of villages reduced to rubble. Deputy government spokesman Bilal Karimi expressed his concern, stating that “the casualties are practically very high.” He added, “The death toll is more than 1,000 people. We are waiting to see how the final figures will turn out.”
Horrific Scene in Villages by Afghanistan’s Earthquake
In the village of Sarboland in the Zinda Jan district, the earthquake had a catastrophic impact. Numerous homes were reduced to rubble, with belongings strewn amid the debris. Men sifted through the wreckage while women and children sought refuge in the open, awaiting help.
Widespread Destruction
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 600 houses were destroyed or partially damaged across at least 12 villages in Herat province, affecting approximately 4,200 people. Many described how their homes collapsed in the initial tremor, burying those inside.
Everything lostOne locals named Nek Mohammad told AFP that he was at work when the first quake struk at around 11:00 am (06:30GMT). He also stated that ” We came home and saw that actually there was nothing. All have turn into sand'” he also added 30 bodies hass been recovered.
So far we have nothing not any blanket or anything. We are left out at night with our myrtyrs.” He said.
The WHO said late Saturday the number of casaulties is expected to rise as search operatio is going on.”
Dire Humanitarian Crisis
The earthquake comes at a time when Afghanistan is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis. Compounded by the withdrawal of foreign aid following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Herat province, bordering Iran and home to nearly 1.9 million people, has been particularly affected by a prolonged drought, adding to the challenges faced by its already struggling agricultural communities.
Frequent Earthquake Activity
Afghanistan is no stranger to earthquakes, especially in the Hindu Kush mountain range, where the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates meet. Last year, in June, a 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck Paktika province. It resultes in the deaths of over 1,000 people and leaving tens of thousands homeless. It was the deadliest earthquake in Afghanistan in nearly 25 years.
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