Earthquake Shakes Eastern Afghanistan

(MENAFN) Over 250 individuals lost their lives and approximately 500 sustained injuries when a 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck the eastern region of Afghanistan late Sunday night, according to information provided by the country’s Information Ministry to a news agency.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the tremor occurred at 11:47 p.m. local time (1917GMT). The epicenter was situated 27 kilometers (16.7 miles) east-northeast of Jalalabad, at a depth of 8 kilometers (5 miles).

An official from the ministry informed the news agency that fatalities and injuries have been documented in several districts of Kunar province, including Nur Gal, Sawki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapa Dara.

He emphasized that the current toll of the deceased and wounded is not definitive, as communication with residents in secluded areas is still ongoing and relief groups are en route to these locations.

Access to regions such as Dewa Gul in the Sawki district and Mazar Dara in Nur Gul has been obstructed by landslides, creating significant challenges for emergency teams trying to reach those in need, the official added.

Residents described the quake as among the strongest to strike the nation in recent memory.

Spokesperson for the Afghan interim government, Zabihullah Mujahid, verified that the earthquake had led to both human and material losses.

"Sadly, tonight's earthquake has caused loss of life and property damage in some of our eastern provinces," he posted on the platform owned by the US-based tech company X.

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