Death Toll in Afghanistan Earthquake Rises to Over 2,200

Jalalabad, Sep 5 (AP) Hundreds of bodies have been recovered from homes devastated by a powerful earthquake in Afghanistan last week, raising the death toll to over 2,200, according to a Taliban government spokesperson Thursday.

A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck several provinces in the mountainous and remote eastern region on Sunday night, flattening villages and trapping residents beneath the rubble.

The majority of casualties have occurred in Kunar, an area where many reside in steep river valleys separated by towering mountains.

Taliban spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat, who provided the latest casualty figures, stated that search and rescue operations are ongoing. “Tents have been erected for displaced individuals, and the distribution of first aid and emergency supplies is underway.”

However, challenging terrain and funding cuts are impeding rescue and relief efforts, with aid agencies calling on the international community for more assistance.

This is the third devastating earthquake to strike the country since the Taliban assumed power in 2021. (AP) SKS NPK NPK

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