Earthquake in northern Afghanistan

Photo: depositphotos

The epicenter of the massive earthquake was near the city of Mazar-e-Sharif in northern Afghanistan. The tremor damaged part of the historic Blue Mosque. The U.S. Geological Survey said the epicenter was at a depth of 28 kilometers.

According to many eyewitness accounts, the ground shook for about fifteen seconds. The entire city of Mazar-e Sharif was then covered in dust. Many buildings were damaged and some collapsed. It will take several weeks to assess the damage. The current priority is to find the missing who may be trapped in the rubble.

According to preliminary data from the Afghan National Disaster Management Authority, twenty residents lost their lives and another twenty-five were seriously injured. Nearly seven hundred residents suffered minor injuries. Rescue and medical teams arrived in the area immediately. All nearby hospitals were put on alert to treat all the injured.

Footage from the Afghan Ministry of Defense showed the military also involved in searching through the rubble. The United Nations mission in Afghanistan said it had personnel on the ground and was supporting rescue operations.

India, which is trying to restore relations with the Taliban after severing diplomatic ties after its takeover in 2021, has also pledged immediate support. The aid from India includes supplies of medicine and all kinds of humanitarian material.

Source: Reuters, Editorial Weathersunshine.com