Massive Earthquake in Afghanistan Leaves 800 Dead and Thousands Injured

A devastating earthquake struck Afghanistan early Sunday, leaving at least 800 people dead and more than 2,800 injured, according to local authorities. The quake, which measured 6.9 on the Richter scale, shook several provinces, destroying homes, toppling buildings, and leaving thousands of families homeless. Rescue operations are underway, but officials fear the death toll could rise as more bodies are recovered from the rubble.

The epicenter of the earthquake was reported near the eastern province of Paktika, an area known for its mountainous terrain and vulnerable infrastructure. Tremors were felt across neighboring regions, including Kabul and even parts of Pakistan, triggering widespread panic. Survivors described scenes of chaos as walls crumbled and roofs collapsed without warning.

Emergency response teams, supported by the Afghan Red Crescent Society and international aid groups, rushed to the worst-hit areas. Rescue workers are battling against time to save those trapped under debris. Hospitals in nearby provinces are overwhelmed with casualties, with medical staff struggling to treat the injured amid shortages of supplies and equipment.

Afghan authorities have appealed for international assistance, calling for urgent medical aid, tents, food supplies, and financial support. Neighboring countries, including Pakistan and Iran, have pledged to send rescue teams and relief materials. The United Nations also confirmed it is coordinating humanitarian support to help victims.

For many survivors, the tragedy has compounded existing hardships in Afghanistan, where poverty, conflict, and fragile infrastructure have already strained daily life. Entire villages have been flattened, forcing thousands of people to sleep in open fields without shelter. Aid workers warn of rising health risks, including the spread of disease and lack of clean drinking water.

Eyewitnesses shared heart-wrenching stories of families losing multiple members in the disaster. “In just seconds, everything we had was gone,” said Ahmad, a survivor from Paktika. “We dug with our bare hands to find our loved ones.”

Geologists noted that Afghanistan lies in a seismically active zone, making it highly prone to earthquakes. However, poor construction practices and lack of disaster preparedness often turn such natural disasters into humanitarian catastrophes. Experts stressed the urgent need for better infrastructure planning and early warning systems to reduce future risks.

As the country mourns, international communities are closely watching the situation. Humanitarian organizations have launched donation drives to provide immediate relief, while governments are discussing long-term support for rebuilding efforts. Analysts warn that Afghanistan’s limited resources will make recovery particularly difficult without sustained international assistance.

This earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life in the region and the urgent need for global solidarity in the face of natural disasters.