Devastation Strikes Again: Afghanistan Reels from a Deadly Quake and Unfolding Humanitarian Catastrophe

A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake tore through northern Afghanistan in the early hours of Monday, claiming lives, injuring hundreds, and causing widespread destruction. The tremor struck just before 1 a.m. local time, jolting residents from their sleep and turning the night into chaos.

Among the victims was Ghulam Mahmoodi, 40, who was sleeping with six relatives in a single-bedroom home when the quake hit. Mahmoodi managed to rescue two of his daughters by rushing them outside, but tragedy struck when the hill above their home collapsed, burying their third daughter, Zainab, under debris. Hours later, the 10-year-old was declared dead.

The earthquake marks the latest disaster to hit Afghanistan, a nation already grappling with humanitarian crises, economic instability, and political challenges.

Read More: http://newsinfodesk.com/shocking-attack-on-uk-train-police-char

The Epicenter and Its Impact

The quake’s epicenter was near Mazar-i-Sharif, a city of roughly 500,000 people, famous for its 15th-century Blue Mosque. The mosque sustained significant damage, with its iconic turquoise tiles dislodged and parts of its walls and historical inscriptions destroyed.

Countless homes collapsed under the tremor, leaving families homeless and forcing survivors into the streets at night. In the provinces of Balkh and Samangan, the destruction echoed the August earthquake in eastern Afghanistan, which killed at least 2,200 people.

Authorities confirmed at least 20 fatalities and over 520 injuries, though the numbers are expected to rise as rescue teams continue operations.

Personal Stories of Tragedy and Survival

The quake has left deep scars on countless Afghan families. Mahmoodi’s story highlights both heroism and heartbreak. While he successfully saved his mother and wife, his daughter Zainab’s life was tragically cut short.

Other survivors recounted similar harrowing experiences. Nakarulden, a farmer, was traveling back to Mazar-i-Sharif after a day in the rice fields when a boulder fell on their vehicle, killing three members of his group. Hospitals in the city reported numerous patients with severe injuries, many requiring urgent medical attention.

The earthquake has exposed the fragility of Afghanistan’s infrastructure and healthcare system. Abdul Aziz Kamawal, an iron factory worker, discovered he needed surgery for a broken femur that would cost the equivalent of four months’ salary—around $600—highlighting the financial strain on ordinary citizens.

Afghanistan’s Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies

This earthquake is part of a string of crises that have compounded hardships in Afghanistan. Earlier this year, more than two million Afghans returned from Pakistan and Iran, often facing hostility and rising living costs. Simultaneously, aid cuts have severely limited access to food, healthcare, and housing, leaving displaced families vulnerable.

Many households still reside in tents following the August earthquake, struggling to find warmth and shelter as winter approaches. The recent tremor has displaced even more families, adding to the nation’s already critical humanitarian needs.

The Toll on Infrastructure and Heritage

Beyond personal tragedies, the earthquake has inflicted damage on critical infrastructure and historical landmarks. In Mazar-i-Sharif, the Blue Mosque, a symbol of Afghan heritage, suffered structural damage, with turquoise tiles falling from its minarets and historical writings partially destroyed.

Residential buildings, schools, and hospitals also sustained severe damage, leaving thousands without safe shelter or access to basic services. Emergency response teams have been working around the clock, but difficult terrain, limited resources, and the scale of destruction have slowed recovery efforts.

Emergency Response and Relief Efforts

Afghan emergency services, supported by international nonprofits, have mobilized to reach affected areas. Rescue teams continue to search through rubble, evacuate survivors, and provide medical assistance.

At hospitals in Mazar-i-Sharif, dozens of injured patients received care for broken limbs, head injuries, and other trauma. Despite the tireless work of healthcare providers, the influx of patients has overwhelmed the system, highlighting the urgent need for additional support.

Aid agencies are also distributing food, water, blankets, and emergency shelter, but logistical challenges and winter weather threaten the efficiency of relief operations. Many displaced families lack basic necessities, and the looming cold season raises the risk of further casualties.

Economic and Social Consequences

The earthquake has further strained Afghanistan’s fragile economy. Many affected households have lost their only sources of income, such as farming or labor work. Ghulam Mahmoodi, for example, earns just $75 a month, barely enough to provide food for his family.

Rising housing costs in cities like Kabul have made it difficult for returning and displaced families to secure accommodation. This situation exacerbates social tensions, leaving millions in precarious living conditions.

The disaster also threatens local industries and agriculture. Farmers face the loss of crops, livestock, and equipment, reducing productivity and incomes at a time when food security is already under pressure.

Afghanistan Faces a Cascade of Crises

The northern earthquake is the latest in a series of disasters affecting Afghanistan this year. Between natural calamities, the return of displaced citizens, and escalating political tensions, the nation faces an unprecedented humanitarian challenge.

Winter looms over a country where many have no permanent shelter, healthcare services remain limited, and food scarcity persists. The convergence of these crises leaves families like Mahmoodi’s facing a stark choice: survival or despair.

 The Need for Urgent Aid

Humanitarian organizations emphasize that immediate relief and long-term recovery plans are critical. Afghan authorities and international partners must prioritize:

• Emergency medical care for injured survivors
• Safe shelter and supplies for displaced families
• Restoration of critical infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, and historic landmarks
• Financial assistance for those who have lost their livelihoods

Without swift intervention, the impact of this earthquake will linger, deepening the suffering of already vulnerable communities.

frequently asked Questions:

When did the deadly earthquake strike Afghanistan?

The powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake hit northern Afghanistan just before 1 a.m. local time on Monday.

Which areas were most affected by the earthquake?

The epicenter was near Mazar-i-Sharif, impacting the provinces of Balkh and Samangan, along with surrounding rural areas.

How many people were killed or injured?

At least 20 people were confirmed dead, and more than 520 were injured, though the numbers may rise as rescue operations continue.

What historical landmarks were damaged?

The iconic 15th-century Blue Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif suffered structural damage, including fallen turquoise tiles and partially destroyed historical inscriptions.

What challenges are families facing after the quake?

Many families have lost their homes, livelihoods, and loved ones. Displaced households are struggling with shelter, food shortages, and access to medical care.

How are emergency teams responding?

Afghan emergency services, supported by international nonprofits, are rescuing survivors, providing medical aid, and distributing essential supplies like food, water, and blankets.

How has this earthquake affected Afghanistan’s economy?

The disaster has disrupted livelihoods, increased housing costs, and damaged infrastructure, worsening financial strain on already vulnerable families.

Conclusion

The devastating 6.3-magnitude earthquake in northern Afghanistan has left the nation grappling with loss, injury, and widespread destruction. Families like Ghulam Mahmoodi’s have faced unimaginable heartbreak, while countless others struggle to find shelter, food, and safety. Historic landmarks, homes, and livelihoods have been damaged, highlighting the fragility of Afghanistan’s infrastructure and social safety nets. As winter approaches and humanitarian needs grow, immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts are critical. International support, coordinated emergency response, and aid for displaced communities can help mitigate the human toll and rebuild resilience. This disaster is a stark reminder of Afghanistan’s vulnerability to natural catastrophes, the enduring strength of its people, and the urgent need for global solidarity in times of crisis.