A powerful earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Monday night, resulting in a devastating loss of life and widespread injuries. The tremors, which occurred while most residents were asleep, caused extensive damage and widespread fear throughout the affected areas. The quake’s epicenter was located approximately 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad, a city with a population of around two lakhs. Several aftershocks were also recorded following the initial earthquake. Numerous houses constructed from mud and stone collapsed in the provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar, with remote villages bearing the brunt of the destruction. The majority of fatalities have been reported in Kunar province. The tremors were felt across several districts, including Noor Gul, Soki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapdare, leading to buildings shaking and residents fleeing their homes in panic. The impact of the earthquake was felt as far away as Islamabad, Pakistan, roughly 370 km from the epicenter. The shallow depth of the earthquake, estimated at 8 to 10 km, contributed to its devastating impact. The region is known for its vulnerable infrastructure and construction, making rescue efforts particularly challenging. Rescue teams are urgently working to locate and assist individuals trapped in the rubble. Eastern Afghanistan, situated at the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates in the Hindu Kush mountain region, is prone to earthquakes. This area faces significant challenges, including weak housing, limited access to emergency assistance, and a shortage of water, exacerbating the impact of such disasters. Relief operations are ongoing, but officials anticipate a considerable time to fully assess the extent of the tragedy.
