How is the UN Responding to the Recent Earthquake in Afghanistan?
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Synopsis
The UN is intensifying its efforts to aid Afghan earthquake victims, providing essential supplies and services. With 25 fatalities reported and extensive damage, the international community is urged to act swiftly. The situation highlights the urgent need for humanitarian support in the region.
Key Takeaways
- UN and partners are responding to the Afghan earthquake.
- 25 fatalities and nearly 1,000 injuries reported.
- Immediate needs include emergency shelter and medical supplies.
- The earthquake registered a magnitude of 6.3.
- International community urged to support Afghanistan.
United Nations, Nov 7 (NationPress) - In the wake of the devastating earthquake that hit northern Afghanistan earlier this week, the United Nations and its partners are ramping up their humanitarian efforts, as shared by Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General.
During a press briefing on Thursday, Haq reported that local authorities have confirmed that 25 lives have been lost and nearly 1,000 individuals have sustained injuries due to the earthquake on Monday. He also mentioned that assessments conducted by the UN indicate that approximately 800 homes have been damaged.
Immediate actions include providing emergency shelter, warm clothing, financial aid for heating, and repair kits for the afflicted households. Furthermore, there is an acute requirement for enhanced health support, especially mobile clinics, trauma care in remote areas, and increased ambulance services.
The UN and its partners are actively delivering assistance on the ground. The International Organization for Migration is supplying tents, emergency shelter kits, and blankets. The UN Children's Fund, alongside its partners, is distributing clothing and hygiene kits, while the World Food Programme is providing food packages, including high-energy biscuits, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
On the health front, the World Health Organization and its partners have dispatched emergency medical supplies and are aiding local authorities in service delivery and coordination, Haq added.
"The UN continues to urge Member States to lend support to the Afghan populace in addressing their humanitarian needs. The $2.4 billion Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan remains only 35% funded, with $857 million received so far," he stated.
The earthquake's epicenter was identified in the Khulm area, registering a magnitude of 6.3 at a depth of 28 kilometers. The provinces affected include Balkh, Samangan, Kunduz, Sar-e-Pul, and Jawzjan.
In response to the disaster, the Afghan government has initiated rescue operations.
Rescue teams have successfully cleared and reopened several major roads, aiding residents who were previously trapped.
Officials from Badakhshan province reported that around 800 houses were impacted by the earthquake.
Additionally, the historic Blue Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif suffered damage, with sections of its structure peeling away. Established in the 12th century, this mosque is a significant religious and cultural landmark in northern Afghanistan.
Point of View
Our stance remains firmly aligned with the needs of the Afghan people. The urgent response from the UN and partners illustrates a global commitment to humanitarian aid in times of crisis. It is crucial for the international community to act decisively and support these efforts.
NationPress
07/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the magnitude of the earthquake in Afghanistan?
The earthquake in Afghanistan had a magnitude of 6.3.
How many people were affected by the earthquake?
The earthquake resulted in 25 fatalities and nearly 1,000 injuries.
What immediate aid is the UN providing?
The UN is providing emergency shelter, clothing, cash for heating, and health support.
Which areas were affected by the earthquake?
The earthquake impacted the provinces of Balkh, Samangan, Kunduz, Sar-e-Pul, and Jawzjan.
What is the funding status of the Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan?
The $2.4 billion plan is only 35% funded, with $857 million received so far.
