Devastating earthquakes have struck western Afghanistan, leaving communities in turmoil and despair. The powerful tremors have claimed the lives of at least 2,000 people and left thousands injured. Entire villages lie in ruins, with bodies trapped beneath the rubble and survivors frantically searching for loved ones.
Dire Situation
The aftermath of the earthquakes has left many in dire circumstances. Survivors, both living and deceased, remain trapped beneath debris, their faces covered in grey dust. Government reports indicate that hundreds are still trapped, over 1,000 are injured, and more than 1,300 homes have been destroyed.
Photographer’s Account: Omid Haqjoo, a photographer who visited four villages affected by the disaster, described the shock and grief that enveloped the region. He recounted how people were left speechless and in tears, struggling to come to terms with the unprecedented tragedy.
Magnitude 6.3 Quake
The initial earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.3, struck a densely populated area near Herat, Afghanistan’s fourth-largest city. It was followed by several strong aftershocks, adding to the chaos and destruction.
Taliban Government’s Response
A spokesperson for the Taliban government provided the grim toll, marking this earthquake as one of the deadliest to hit the country in two decades.
International Response
Despite the enormity of the disaster, international aid has been slow to arrive, with much of the world preoccupied by other global issues. Only a handful of countries, including China and Pakistan, have publicly offered support. The lack of rescue equipment and resources has raised concerns that trapped survivors may not be reached in time, potentially increasing the death toll.
Urgent Needs
The absence of adequate medical facilities has resulted in the loss of lives among the injured. A shortage of essential supplies, including food, shelter, and clean water, has exacerbated health risks in the affected communities.
Harsh Conditions
Residents in Herat city are sleeping in the open air, on roadsides, and in parks due to fears of more earthquakes. The dropping temperatures at night pose additional challenges, with temperatures reaching as low as 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit).
Global Aid Call
Abdul Wahid Rayan, a spokesperson at the Ministry of Information and Culture, appealed for urgent assistance, emphasizing the hundreds of civilians trapped under debris in Herat.
Aid and Rescue Efforts
Despite challenges, rescue efforts have been mobilized, with teams from the military and nonprofit organizations working tirelessly. Ambulances, medical teams, and psychosocial support counselors have been dispatched to the affected areas. Aid agencies like Doctors Without Borders and UNICEF have set up medical tents and delivered essential supplies.
Cricket Star’s Contribution
Afghan cricket star Rashid Khan pledged to donate all his Cricket World Cup fees to assist earthquake survivors in Herat. He also announced plans for a fundraising campaign to garner support for those in need.
International Assistance
China, Pakistan, and other countries have expressed their readiness to provide aid and support to Afghanistan during this crisis. Japan’s ambassador to Afghanistan conveyed condolences and offered assistance via social media.
As Afghanistan grapples with the aftermath of these devastating earthquakes, the international community’s response remains critical to providing relief, resources, and assistance to those affected by this tragic disaster.