Afghanistan Quake Rescue
MAZAR DARA
Afghanistan launched aerial missions to rescue earthquake survivors in remote, mountainous areas after twin tremors devastated eastern provinces this week, killing at least 1,411 people and injuring over 3,100. The initial magnitude-6 quake struck Kunar and Nangarhar provinces on Sunday, flattening thousands of mudbrick homes, followed by a magnitude-5.5 tremor on Tuesday that triggered landslides and further hampered relief operations.
Dozens of commandos were airdropped where helicopters could not land to evacuate the injured and assist in recovery, while authorities set up coordination camps and emergency centers for rescue, medical aid, and burials. Survivors sifted through rubble searching for loved ones, with entire households wiped out in some villages. Humanitarian workers warned that conditions are worsening, particularly for women and children, amid scarce resources, harsh weather, and difficult terrain.
Limited international support, affected by funding cuts and restrictions on aid workers, has strained relief efforts. The United Nations and organizations like Doctors Without Borders called for urgent aid, including emergency shelter, food, clean water, sanitation, and medical supplies. Fragile housing and unstable ground due to heavy rains have exacerbated the crisis, leaving many survivors struggling for basic necessities.
The situation underscores the urgent need for global assistance to prevent further loss of life and address the mounting humanitarian disaster in Afghanistan.
