A powerful 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Sunday night, claiming the lives of more than 800 people and injuring over 2,500 others. The epicenter was located near Jalalabad in Nangarhar Province, with tremors felt as far as Kabul, Pakistan’s Punjab region, and northern India.
Entire villages in Kunar Province, near the Pakistan border, were reportedly reduced to rubble. Homes made of mud and stone collapsed under the force of the quake, trapping families beneath debris. Rescue operations are ongoing, but efforts have been severely hampered by landslides and damaged roads.
Taliban officials have mobilized emergency response teams, including soldiers, health workers, and volunteers, to the worst-hit districts. “This is a great tragedy,” said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. “All available resources are being deployed to save lives and provide relief.’
The United Nations has confirmed its teams are on the ground delivering emergency aid, including food, medical supplies, and temporary shelter. “We are deeply saddened by the devastating earthquake that has claimed hundreds of lives,” the UN mission in Afghanistan stated.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and pledged humanitarian assistance, stating that India stands ready to provide “all possible aid” to the Afghan people.