Rescue Operations Begin Amid Earthquake in Afghanistan

(MENAFN) A large-scale rescue effort has been initiated in Afghanistan’s eastern Kunar province following a devastating magnitude 6.0 earthquake that struck late Sunday night.

The tremor hit while most people were sleeping, resulting in the deaths of more than 250 individuals, according to authorities on Monday.

According to an official from the Information Ministry, helicopters have been dispatched to evacuate the wounded, as many roads remain inaccessible due to landslides.

These blockages have significantly hindered rescue personnel from reaching multiple areas affected by the quake, the official told a news agency.

The confirmed death toll has surpassed 250, and more than 500 people have sustained injuries.

However, the numbers may continue to climb as emergency workers reach more remote communities, the official noted.

Residents have described this disaster as among the strongest earthquakes the region has ever experienced.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the seismic event at 11:47 p.m. local time (1917GMT), placing its epicenter 27 kilometers (16.7 miles) east-northeast of Jalalabad at a shallow depth of 8 kilometers (5 miles).

Fatalities and injuries have been reported across several districts in Kunar province, including Nur Gal, Sawki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapa Dara.

Officials emphasized that the current casualty figures are provisional, as communication with locals in isolated areas is ongoing and relief crews continue making their way to those regions.

In particular, landslides have obstructed access to Dewa Gul in Sawki district and Mazar Dara in Nur Gul district, further complicating the rescue mission.

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