WHO calls for urgent international support for Kunar Earthquake victims

ASADABAD: The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that a shortfall of over four million dollars in its budget could hinder relief efforts for earthquake victims in eastern Afghanistan, where thousands of displaced families are facing a lack of healthcare services and essential supplies. A magnitude 6 earthquake on Monday struck Kunar, Nangarhar, Laghman, Panjshir, and Nuristan provinces, causing significant damage. WHO reported last night that scale of the disaster continues to grow; over 2,000 people have lost their lives, more than 3,300 are injured and 6,700 homes have been destroyed and the death toll may rise as search and rescue teams reach remote areas that have so far been inaccessible. The report stated: “Rescue operations are facing serious challenges, especially in severely affected areas like Chawkai, Nurgal, Pich Dara, and Watapur, where access is extremely difficult. Mountainous terrains, landslides, and blocked roads have disrupted the delivery of aid, and recent rainfall has further complicated the situation.”WHO noted that its humanitarian partners have intensified their efforts and mobilized additional teams and resources to reach remote and affected communities. However, it is believed that many people remain trapped under rubble of destroyed homes in remote villages, and opportunity for their rescue is quickly diminishing. The source added that this disaster has left thousands of families homeless, many of whom are now living in temporary shelters while still facing aftershocks. Local healthcare centers are under severe pressure, struggling with a shortage of medical supplies and personnel. It is estimated that around 270,000 returnees are now residing in the affected districts, which has put additional strain on limited resources and increased the risk of a secondary crisis, such as the spread of diseases due to overcrowding and inadequate sanitation.