Kunar (Dawan Africa) – At least 800 people have been confirmed dead and more than 2,500 injured after a powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Sunday, with officials warning that the death toll could rise further as rescue efforts continue in remote areas.
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake struck at 11:47 p.m. local time (1917 GMT), with its epicenter located 27 kilometers east-northeast of Jalalabad at a shallow depth of 8 kilometers. Casualties have been reported in multiple districts of Kunar province, including Nur Gal, Sawki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapa Dara.
Roads to Dewa Gul in Sawki and Mazar Dara in Nur Gul district have been blocked by landslides, complicating rescue operations. Afghan authorities have deployed helicopters to airlift the injured as ground teams struggle to reach those trapped under the rubble.
Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman for the Afghan interim administration, confirmed the latest toll and announced the allocation of 100 million Afghanis ($1.4 million) for relief operations. A special committee led by Rural Rehabilitation and Development Minister Mullah Mohammad Yunus Akhundzada has been tasked with coordinating aid efforts.
The Ministry of Defense said 35 emergency flights have already transferred 335 injured individuals from Kunar to Nangarhar Regional Hospital, with more evacuations ongoing.
The USGS also reported at least two aftershocks, each measuring 5.2 magnitude, hitting the same region after the initial quake. Locals described the tremors as among the strongest in recent memory, leaving widespread destruction across mountainous villages.
Authorities and aid organizations warn that the casualty figures are expected to rise as communication remains limited in remote districts and rescue teams face delays caused by blocked roads.
Source: Anadolu Agency (AA)
