Kabul, Sept 2, 2025 — A powerful earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Monday, leaving at least 800 people dead and thousands more injured or trapped under collapsed homes. Entire villages have been flattened, with survivors desperately searching for loved ones as rescue operations continue.
Death Toll Rising Hour by Hour
According to local authorities, the death toll is expected to rise as many remote areas remain inaccessible. Initial reports suggest that mud-brick houses, common across rural Afghanistan, collapsed instantly, burying families under rubble.
The quake measured 6.7 on the Richter scale, according to the US Geological Survey. Tremors were also felt across Pakistan, northern India, and parts of Central Asia.
Scenes of Destruction
Videos circulating on social media show:
- Collapsed homes and damaged mosques.
- Families digging through debris with bare hands.
- Hospitals struggling to accommodate the surge in casualties.
“We are losing hope with every passing hour. People are still trapped, and we don’t have enough equipment,” a local volunteer in Nangarhar province told reporters.
Aid and Rescue Efforts
The Afghan Red Crescent Society has launched emergency operations and appealed for international assistance. However, blocked roads and landslides have slowed down relief efforts.
- Pakistan and Iran have announced immediate aid shipments.
- The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said it has deployed a rapid response team.
- International charities including Save the Children and Médecins Sans Frontières are mobilizing medical and food supplies.
Global Condolences
World leaders have expressed grief over the tragedy. The UN Secretary-General urged the global community to provide “swift and generous support,” while humanitarian experts warned of a worsening crisis if aid is delayed.
The Road Ahead
Afghanistan, already grappling with economic challenges and humanitarian crises, now faces another test of resilience. For thousands who lost homes and families overnight, the road to recovery will be long and uncertain.
