Death toll from powerful Afghan quake tops 2,200 as search for survivors continues

The death toll from Sunday’s powerful earthquake in eastern Afghanistan has risen above 2,200, with search and rescue operations ongoing. Local officials warn that many people remain trapped under rubble, and the number of fatalities is likely to climb further.

Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesman for the interim administration, told social media platform X that in Kunar province alone, 2,205 people have died and 3,640 were injured. Rahimullah Hamzala, spokesman for local security forces in Kunar, said:

“With many still trapped under the rubble, the death toll could rise further as search efforts continue.”

Authorities in Kabul also fear the toll may increase as data from Nangarhar, Laghman, and Panjshir provinces, which were also affected, becomes available. At least 12 deaths have already been reported in Nangarhar.

Humanitarian agencies have warned that the scale of devastation requires urgent international support to prevent a worsening crisis. This week, Türkiye dispatched 25 tonnes of aid to Afghanistan, including shelter materials, hygiene kits, and food boxes. Neighbouring Pakistan has sent 105 tonnes of aid, while Iran, China, India, and several Western countries have pledged additional support.

The US Geological Survey recorded the quake at 11:47 pm local time (19:17 GMT), 27 kilometres east-north-east of Jalalabad, at a depth of 8 km, when most residents were asleep.

This is the third major earthquake to strike the war-torn country since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.

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