A devastating earthquake in eastern Afghanistan has claimed at least 500 lives, with over 1,000 injured, according to state-run Radio and Television of Afghanistan (RTA). The disaster struck remote mountainous areas on Monday, overwhelming local emergency response capabilities.
Rescue teams are racing against time to reach isolated villages as landslides and damaged infrastructure hinder access. Hospitals in nearby provinces report being overwhelmed, with urgent calls for medical supplies and temporary shelters.
Regional Impact and Global Response
The quake highlights Afghanistan's vulnerability to natural disasters amid ongoing economic challenges. Neighboring countries including Pakistan and Iran have offered assistance, while UN agencies are coordinating relief efforts.
This tragedy underscores the need for improved disaster preparedness in seismically active regions of Asia. Analysts note that climate change may increase the frequency of extreme weather events, requiring new strategies for risk mitigation across developing economies.
