Powerful Earthquake Shakes Afghanistan: Casualties, Destruction, and Hope for Recovery
Last Monday, November 3rd, Afghanistan was struck by a devastating earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale.
This was one of the strongest seismic events recorded in the region and its aftermath has brought widespread destruction and human suffering.
Local authorities and international agencies report that at least 20 people have lost their lives, with over 300 injured, many of whom sustained minor wounds and were able to return home after receiving initial medical aid.
The epicenter of the quake was near the city of Khulm, located at a depth of 28 kilometers, which contributed to the severity of damage.
The provinces of Balkh and Samangan suffered the most significant destruction, prompting rescue teams to start relief operations, including transporting the injured and assisting affected families.
Official reports indicate extensive damage to cultural heritage sites, including the famous Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif, which lost parts of its structure due to fallen bricks.
Social media footage shows the scale of devastation with images of collapsed walls and damaged landmarks.
These tragic events are part of a series of earthquakes that have plagued Afghanistan for years, causing increasing destruction, especially in remote mountainous areas.
Earlier in August, a 6.0 magnitude quake near the Pakistan border claimed over 2,200 lives and left many families homeless.
The situation is complicated further by the Taliban government’s restrictions on female rescue workers, which hampers aid efforts for women and girls.
Roadways, including the main highway connecting Kabul to Mazar-e-Sharif, were temporarily blocked by landslides but have since been reopened.
These incidents underscore the ongoing natural challenges in the region and highlight the necessity for international assistance to aid in rescue, medical treatment, and rebuilding efforts.