Kabul, September 1 – At least 800 people were killed and more than 2,500 others injured after a powerful Afghanistan earthquake measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale struck Kunar province near Jalalabad yesterday. The tremors devastated several villages, leaving thousands homeless and sparking an urgent need for international assistance.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar spoke with Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi today to convey India’s condolences and solidarity with the people of Afghanistan. During the conversation, Dr. Jaishankar assured that New Delhi stands firmly with Kabul in this hour of crisis.
According to official sources, India has already dispatched 1,000 family tents to Kabul, which are being transported to the quake hit Kunar region. In addition, the Indian Mission in Kabul is moving 15 tonnes of food material to the affected areas. Further consignments of relief supplies, including essential medicines and emergency equipment, will be airlifted from India starting tomorrow.
The Afghanistan earthquake has flattened homes, destroyed infrastructure, and left many families without shelter. Rescue operations continue amid challenging conditions, with local authorities and aid workers racing against time to locate survivors trapped under the rubble. Hospitals in Jalalabad and surrounding districts are overwhelmed, struggling to treat the rising number of injured victims.
India has a long history of humanitarian support to Afghanistan, and this response reflects its continued commitment despite the difficult political environment. Officials noted that India’s quick relief measures are aimed at providing immediate comfort to survivors and stabilizing communities reeling from the disaster.
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Experts warn that the Afghanistan earthquake could have long term socio economic consequences for the already fragile nation. With large sections of the population living in poverty and limited infrastructure in remote provinces, the path to recovery may be difficult without sustained international cooperation.
India’s emergency relief has been welcomed by Afghan officials, who highlighted the urgency of food, shelter, and medical aid for thousands of families. Further assistance from India and global partners is expected in the coming days.
As Afghanistan struggles with the aftermath of the devastating quake, the international community is being urged to step up contributions and support reconstruction efforts. The tragedy once again underscores the region’s vulnerability to seismic disasters and the pressing need for disaster preparedness.
Stay tuned with The News Drill for more updates.
