Deadly Quakes Rock Western Afghanistan
Western Afghanistan reels from twin 6.3 magnitude earthquakes that hit on Saturday, killing at least 320 people, the United Nations confirms. The powerful tremors reduced buildings to rubble, trapping residents and sparking widespread panic.
Four Villages Worst Hit in Herat Province
The hardest-hit areas are four villages in Herat’s Zenda Jan district, says local official Mohammad Abdullah Jan. The US Geological Survey pinpointed the epicentre 25 miles northwest of Herat city and recorded seven quakes rattling the region. Local Abdul Shakor Samadi recalled the chaos: “At least five powerful earthquakes struck around noon.”
“All people are out of their homes,” Samadi added, as residents, workers, and shoppers fled in fear of more tremors.
Rescue Efforts Underway Amid Communication Blackout
The World Health Organisation and UN teams rushed to assist victims in hospitals and transport the injured, many of whom are children. But rescue efforts face hurdles from disrupted phone lines in Herat, making it tough to get full updates.
Social media videos show hundreds pouring into city streets, seeking safety away from unstable buildings.
Quakes Rip through Neighbouring Provinces
The seismic waves didn’t stop at Herat. The neighbouring provinces of Farah and Badghis also felt the quakes, local reports confirm.
Abdul Ghani Baradar, Taliban’s deputy PM for economic affairs, offered condolences to the victims of Herat and Badghis. The region now braces for the lengthy task of rescue and rebuilding.
