Hundreds Killed as Powerful Earthquake Strikes From Afghanistan

A powerful earthquake originating in Afghanistan has left hundreds dead and thousands injured across the region, with tremors felt in Pakistan, India, and parts of Iran. According to initial reports from the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake measured 6.8 on the Richter scale and struck at a depth of 30 kilometers near the Hindu Kush region late Tuesday night.

• Magnitude: 6.8 on the Richter scale

• Epicenter: Hindu Kush region, Afghanistan

• Casualties: Over 400 confirmed dead (toll expected to rise)

• Injured: More than 2,000 reported so far

• Countries Affected: Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Iran, Tajikistan

• Aftershocks: Multiple 5.2–5.7 magnitude tremors recorded overnight

Epicenter and Affected Regions

The Hindu Kush region, located at the crossroads of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan, is highly prone to seismic activity due to tectonic plate collisions.

Worst-Hit Areas in Afghanistan

• Kunar, Badakhshan, and Nuristan provinces suffered the most severe damage.

• Dozens of villages were flattened, with roads blocked due to landslides.

• Communications remain disrupted in remote mountainous areas.

Impact in Pakistan

• Tremors were strongly felt in Peshawar, Islamabad, Lahore, Swat, and Rawalpindi.

• At least 120 deaths have been reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Gilgit-Baltistan.

• Emergency services were deployed as buildings collapsed in several regions.

Tremors in India

• Northern India, including Delhi, Punjab, and Kashmir, experienced mild to moderate tremors.

• Authorities have reported no major damage so far but are on high alert.

In Afghanistan

• Afghan Red Crescent Society and UN humanitarian agencies are leading rescue efforts.

• Helicopters were deployed to reach isolated mountain villages.

• Makeshift shelters set up for displaced families.

In Pakistan

• Rescue 1122, Pakistan Army, and NDMA have mobilized to evacuate victims.

• Relief camps were established in Swat, Chitral, and Dir.

• Medical teams and mobile hospitals were dispatched to hard-hit zones.

“This is one of the deadliest earthquakes the region has faced in recent years,”
said Ahmad Zia, spokesperson for the Afghan Ministry of Disaster Management.
“Our priority is to rescue trapped survivors and provide emergency aid to affected families.”

Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued a statement urging citizens to stay cautious:

“We are closely monitoring aftershocks and ensuring immediate medical assistance to victims.”

Hospitals in Kabul, Jalalabad, Peshawar, and Islamabad are struggling to cope with the influx of injured people. Doctors report a shortage of blood units, oxygen cylinders, and trauma kits.

Health experts have called on the international community for urgent medical aid to prevent a humanitarian crisis.

Several international organizations and governments have expressed solidarity with the affected nations:

• UNICEF has dispatched emergency relief supplies.

• World Health Organization (WHO) is coordinating with regional authorities for medical support.

• Turkey, the UAE, and China have pledged financial aid and rescue equipment.

Authorities in Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan have issued public safety advisories:

• Stay outdoors during aftershocks.

• Avoid damaged buildings and unstable structures.

• Keep emergency kits ready.

• Follow official alerts via radio and SMS services.

The powerful earthquake that struck Afghanistan has left the region in deep shock and mourning. With hundreds killed and thousands injured, relief efforts are underway, but rescue teams face immense challenges due to rough terrain and ongoing aftershocks.

Governments and international organizations are working together to provide aid, shelter, and medical assistance as the full scale of the disaster unfolds.

For More  Visit: Nationbytes.pk