Death toll in Afghanistan earthquake rises to more than 1,100 as rescue efforts continue

The death toll from Afghanistan’s devastating earthquake has risen to more than 1,100, with thousands more injured, an aid group confirmed on Tuesday.

 

The Afghan Red Crescent Society, a humanitarian group working in the region, has confirmed at least 1,124 deaths, 3,251 injuries in the country’s mountainous eastern region, adding that more people are feared to be still trapped under rubble, reports Yahoo News.

 

The UN coordinator in Afghanistan has warned that the final toll is likely to rise further.

 

A magnitude 6 earthquake struck at a shallow depth of 8km (5mi) around midnight on Monday, with the eastern provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar the worst affected.

 

Machinery is being brought in to clear mountain roads blocked by debris, as the mountainous terrain and inclement weather have severely hindered rescuers from reaching remote areas.

 

The Taliban has called for international aid to help with rescue efforts.

 

As the country’s limited resources are stretched thin, the World Health Organization said over 12,000 people have been affected, with the local health system overwhelmed.

 

UNICEF has warned that thousands of children are at risk and is sending critical supplies, including medicines, tents, and hygiene items.

 

Britain has pledged £1 million in relief funding, with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office stressing that the money will not go directly to the Taliban. The funds, instead, will be split equally between the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and the International Red Cross (IFRC) to deliver critical healthcare and emergency supplies where they are most needed.

 

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the news of the earthquake was “truly tragic,” adding, “The UK remains committed to the people of Afghanistan, and this emergency funding will help our partners to deliver critical healthcare and emergency supplies to the most hard-hit.”

 

This support, he explained, will provide mobile health teams, maternal healthcare, and psychological support in Kunar.

 

The UK’s contribution adds to international pledges of help from nations including India, China, the United Arab Emirates, the European Union, Pakistan and Iran.

 

Underlining our position, he stated, “The UK remains committed to the people of Afghanistan, and this emergency funding will help our partners to deliver critical healthcare and emergency supplies to the most hard-hit.”