Earthquake in Afghanistan increases fatality count, survivors struggle with relief shortage

In the past week, Afghanistan has been hit by two devastating earthquakes, with the first of magnitude 6.0 occurring on Sunday at a depth of 10 km, and the second of magnitude 5.5 on Tuesday. The earthquakes have resulted in over 1,457 deaths and left approximately 84,000 people directly or indirectly affected.

Thousands of people have been displaced, and around 6,700 homes have been destroyed. The death toll is still being compiled, and the United Nations has warned that the number could rise further, as many remain trapped beneath the rubble.

Harsh weather conditions have complicated operations in Afghanistan, but urgent aid has been provided. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (Filippo Grandi) has delivered over 1,000 tons of relief goods such as tents, water containers, blankets, and cookers to the affected regions. The aid includes food, shelter, medical supplies, solar lamps, and emergency kits.

However, the U.N. World Food Programme can only provide support for earthquake survivors for four more weeks. Additional financial support is being solicited to sustain long-term humanitarian aid. The German Red Cross (DRK) is also supporting immediate relief efforts on site.

Jacopo Caridi of the Norwegian Refugee Council has urged donors to commit to long-term support, stressing the need to go beyond emergency aid to give Afghans a chance at a sustainable future. He stated that the earthquake should serve as a stark reminder: Afghanistan cannot be left to face one crisis after another alone.

Afghanistan is a nation of 42 million, weakened by decades of war, poverty, and declining aid. Funding cuts to foreign aid under U.S. President Donald Trump have exacerbated Afghanistan's isolation.

Resources for rescue and relief in Afghanistan are limited. The World Health Organisation has a funding shortfall of $3 million for medicines, trauma kits, and essential items. Jacopo Caridi has emphasised the importance of addressing the root causes of the crisis, such as poverty and conflict, to ensure a sustainable future for Afghanistan.

The second earthquake occurred on Tuesday, adding to the already dire situation. The people of Afghanistan are in urgent need of help, and long-term support is necessary to rebuild their lives and communities.