Paktika Province, Afghanistan — In the early hours of June 22, a powerful magnitude-6.1 earthquake struck Afghanistan’s eastern Paktika Province, resulting in a tragic loss of over 1,000 lives. The disaster has left remote villages devastated, with survivors desperately calling for immediate assistance.
The quake, one of the deadliest to hit the region in decades, flattened homes and reduced entire communities to rubble. Local residents recount harrowing tales of loss and survival as they grapple with the aftermath.
“We’ve lost everything,” said one villager. “Our homes are destroyed, and we have nowhere to go.” The affected communities are facing severe shortages of basic necessities, including tents for shelter, medical supplies, food, and clean water.
The remote location and challenging terrain are complicating rescue and relief efforts. Many roads have been damaged or blocked by landslides, hindering access for aid organizations. Emergency responders are working tirelessly to reach isolated areas, but the scale of the disaster is overwhelming local capacities.
International aid agencies and neighboring countries are being urged to assist in the relief operations. Immediate needs include medical assistance for the injured, temporary shelters, and supplies to prevent the outbreak of disease.
Afghanistan, already facing economic and humanitarian challenges, is in dire need of support to cope with this catastrophe. The resilience of the Afghan people is being tested once again, and global solidarity is crucial to alleviate their suffering in this difficult time.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com