A powerful earthquake struck Afghanistan late Sunday night, causing widespread devastation in Kunar province. According to official reports, at least 250 people have lost their lives. More than 500 others sustained injuries in the disaster. The state-run Bakhtar news agency confirmed the rising toll on Monday morning. Local authorities have warned that the numbers may increase further as rescue operations continue. Many remote areas remain inaccessible due to poor communication and damaged infrastructure.
Official Statements and Rescue Efforts
Provincial disaster management officials confirmed the figures of dead and injured. Rescue teams are struggling to reach remote villages in mountainous terrain. The communication network remains partially down, delaying timely updates. Afghan officials said that initial casualty figures are based only on accessible regions. A complete assessment of the damage will take more time. National media reports state that government agencies are coordinating with aid groups. Relief materials are being dispatched to affected communities.
Initial Reports from Affected Provinces
Earlier reports from Afghanistan’s national radio and television had suggested smaller losses. They indicated nine deaths and twenty injuries in Nangarhar province. However, later assessments revealed a far greater scale of destruction. Many villages in Kunar and surrounding areas suffered structural damage. Homes made of mud and weak materials collapsed instantly. Survivors described horrifying scenes as walls crumbled and roofs gave way.
USGS Report on the Earthquake
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) measured the earthquake’s magnitude at 6.0 on the Richter scale. The tremor was categorized as strong, capable of causing significant destruction. According to USGS, the epicenter was located 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad. The quake struck at a shallow depth of 8 kilometers, which made it more damaging. Indian Standard Time recorded the tremors at 12:47 AM. Approximately 20 minutes later, another aftershock of magnitude 4.5 occurred. This secondary quake originated at a depth of 10 kilometers.
Tremors Felt Across Borders
The earthquake was powerful enough to be felt far beyond Afghanistan. Tremors shook large parts of Pakistan, including major cities. Residents in Delhi and the NCR region of India also reported strong shocks. Many people rushed out of their homes at midnight, fearing structural collapse. In NCR, residents described the shaking of buildings and sudden panic. Families gathered in open spaces until the tremors subsided.
Panic and Fear Among Residents
Witnesses across Afghanistan and neighboring countries reported widespread panic. The late-night timing added to the fear as most people were asleep. The sudden violent shaking forced residents out of their beds. Survivors in Jalalabad recounted how children screamed and families ran into open streets. Similar stories emerged from NCR residents who experienced the quake in the dead of night.
Destruction in Remote Villages
The earthquake caused severe damage in remote areas of Kunar province. Entire houses collapsed in rural settlements. Villages built with traditional mud structures suffered the most destruction. Many victims were trapped under debris. Rescue workers are still searching for survivors. Lack of proper equipment and poor access roads slowed operations. Helicopters are being considered to reach inaccessible locations.
International Attention and Regional Impact
The earthquake quickly drew international attention due to its scale. Humanitarian organizations expressed concern over rising casualties. Neighboring countries also monitored the situation closely. Cross-border tremors highlighted the regional impact of the seismic activity. Experts said that earthquakes in this area often affect several countries simultaneously. The disaster underscored the fragile infrastructure and preparedness challenges in Afghanistan.
Geological Causes: Himalayan Tectonic Activity
Scientists have linked recent earthquakes in Afghanistan to ongoing tectonic activity. The Indian and Eurasian plates continue to collide beneath the Himalayas. This collision began millions of years ago and formed the Himalayan mountain range. The plates remain in constant motion, creating seismic instability in the region. The latest quake is another reminder of these deep geological forces. Experts say these collisions release massive amounts of energy, triggering destructive earthquakes.
Rising Seismic Activity in the Region
In recent years, Afghanistan and neighboring Himalayan regions have witnessed increased seismic activity. Multiple earthquakes of varying intensity have shaken the area. The recent tremor highlights how fragile the zone remains. Seismologists have repeatedly warned about the risks of high-magnitude quakes. The presence of fault lines beneath densely populated areas makes the danger greater. With limited infrastructure and weak housing, casualties often rise sharply after earthquakes.
Afghans Face Humanitarian Challenges
Beyond immediate casualties, survivors face long-term humanitarian challenges. Displaced families require shelter, food, and medical care. Hospitals in Kunar and surrounding provinces are overwhelmed by injured patients. Medical staff are struggling with shortages of supplies. Relief camps are being set up, but access remains difficult. Children and elderly people are most vulnerable to post-disaster hardships.
Regional Preparedness Concerns
The earthquake has once again exposed the lack of preparedness in South Asia. Despite repeated quakes, early warning systems remain limited. Many communities are unaware of proper safety measures during seismic events. Weak building structures further magnify the destruction. Experts suggest that investment in earthquake-resistant housing is urgently needed. Cross-border cooperation could also improve disaster response.
Memories of Past Quakes
The latest disaster revived memories of earlier devastating earthquakes in Afghanistan. Past quakes have killed thousands and displaced communities for years. Survivors in Jalalabad and Kunar compared Sunday night’s tremor to earlier disasters. Many residents fear more aftershocks could follow in coming days. Scientists warn that the region remains highly vulnerable to seismic shifts.
International Aid Expected
Given the scale of destruction, international humanitarian aid is expected. The United Nations and aid groups often assist Afghanistan during such crises. Rescue teams and medical supplies may be dispatched soon. Afghanistan’s government has limited resources to manage large-scale disasters. Global cooperation could play a major role in recovery efforts.
Delhi NCR Residents React
In India’s NCR, people shared their experiences on social media. Many residents reported that their homes shook violently. Families described running out in fear. Parents held children close as they waited in open areas. The earthquake trend showed how tremors in Afghanistan can reach India. Residents in NCR stressed the need for stronger earthquake safety awareness.
Aftershock Concerns
The aftershock of 4.5 magnitude added to fears among residents. Scientists say aftershocks are common after major quakes. These smaller quakes may continue for days. Though less powerful, they can still cause damage to weakened structures. Authorities advised residents in Afghanistan to remain cautious. Experts recommend avoiding damaged buildings until safety checks are complete.
The 2025 Afghanistan earthquake has caused massive destruction and loss of life. With over 250 dead and 500 injured, the tragedy highlights regional vulnerability. Tremors were felt across Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India’s NCR. The quake’s epicenter near Jalalabad points to ongoing tectonic instability. Rescue teams are working under challenging conditions to assist survivors. Scientists warn that seismic risks remain high in the Himalayan belt. Preparedness, stronger infrastructure, and international aid are crucial for reducing future losses.
