The death toll from the devastating earthquake in eastern Afghanistan has climbed to 812, with more than 2,800 people injured. Forming a special task force to coordinate the response the Afghan government has allocated 100 million Afghanis for immediate relief, according to news agencies.
The earthquake that struck around midnight measured 6.0 magnitude, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Zabihullah Mujahid, chief spokesman for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), told reporters in Kabul on Monday that in Kunar province’s Nurgal district (Mazar Dara), Chawkay, Watapur, Manogi, Chapa Dara and surrounding areas, 800 people have died leaving more than 2,500 injured. In Nangarhar’s Dara-i-Noor district, 12 people were killed and 255 were injured. Laghman’s Alingar district reported 58 injuries, and Nuristan’s Nurgram district reported four injuries. The powerful tremor destroyed five houses in Panjshir’s Abshar district, but no casualties were reported. Mujahid said the Prime Minister has formed a special team led by Minister of Rural Rehabilitation and Development, Mullah Mohammad Yunus Akhundzada, with representatives from various ministries and agencies to carry out emergency relief works.
“For urgent relief, the Prime Minister has allocated 100 million Afghanis, which are being used now. Additional funds will be provided if needed,” he added. Since Sunday night, the Ministries of Interior, Defence and Public Health, along with provincial governors, disaster response departments, the Red Crescent and other officials, have taken measures to evacuate the deceased, transfer the injured, and deliver essential food items and medical supplies, and other necessities. To carry out relief and rescue activities 40 flights have been conducted from Nangarhar’s airport alone. Mujahid urged all charitable organisations, traders, and ordinary Afghans to support earthquake-affected people.
