Afghanistan is acknowledged worldwide as one of the poorest and most devastated countries in the world; most people are familiar with the countless governmental issues and humanitarian crises that the country is facing. Currently, the most prominent problem in Afghanistan, ever since the Taliban’s return in 2021, is its lack of rights for women and children. Unfortunately, this is not the only issue that Afghanistan is facing; due to the country’s geographical location between various geological fault lines, it is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in Asia. Poor housing construction and the ongoing economic crisis also play a part, leaving millions vulnerable when earthquakes occur.

Early on Monday, the 2nd of November morning, a strong 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 600 according to local officials. The USGS reported that “the quake’s center was near the town of Khulm (about 22 km away) and arrived as a short but strong wave”. Tremors were felt as far as Kabul, causing collective panic as people rushed out of their homes. 

Many houses made of mud and brick collapsed, particularly in the poorer Balkh and Samangan provinces. Troops were sent to help control the damage, however, weakened roads and landslides from rain slowed rescue efforts in mountainous areas.

Hospitals have been treating hundreds of injured individuals, but the shortage of trained medical professionals throughout the country makes it difficult to help everyone. To try and provide support to Afghanistan, the WHO is sending them humanitarian aid, although Taliban restrictions are limiting their ability to help, as they are likely keeping many injured victims from receiving help.

The Taliban restrictions also play a role in the information the rest of the world has access to. Although their officials occasionally report on casualties and destruction, these numbers are unattainable. Internet access is also limited in many parts of the country, and reporters face strict constraints on travel and communication, which suggests that the actual scale of this disaster is a lot worse than what is being reported.

The Taliban has requested foreign aid, but they seem to want to control the response to the Earthquake themselves. Some humanitarian organizations believe this complicates the coordination of relief efforts to reach remote villages quickly, consequently resulting in more lives being lost.