A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan early Monday, killing at least 20 people and injuring over 500 across the provinces of Balkh, Samangan, and Baghlan.
India swiftly responded by sending 15 tonnes of emergency relief, including food and essential medicines, despite lacking formal diplomatic recognition of the Taliban regime.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed condolences to Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in a phone call, reaffirmed India’s support, and discussed bilateral ties and regional issues between the two governments.
Earthquake impact and rescue challenges
The earthquake destroyed dozens of homes and shops, blocked the critical Balkh–Samangan highway, and severely affected remote communities, especially in Samangan province where damage was most severe.
The blocked highways and rugged terrain have hampered rescue and relief efforts. This tremor follows another major quake earlier in September, intensifying the humanitarian crisis. Thousands have been left displaced, with urgent needs for shelter, medical aid, and food supplies.
India’s aid and diplomatic outreach
India delivered 15 tonnes of food supplies, including wheat flour, rice, cooking oil, sugar, salt, lentils, beans, peas, tea, and soap, to support quake-affected families. Additional consignments of essential medicines are en route. India also dispatched 1,000 family tents previously after the September quake and has pledged more ongoing aid shipments.
India’s external minister Dr Jaishankar called Afghanistan’s minister, “Called FM Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi of Afghanistan this afternoon to convey condolences at the loss of lives in the earthquake that struck Balkh, Samangan and Baghlan provinces. Indian relief material for the earthquake impacted communities is being handed over today. Further supplies of medicines to reach soon. Discussed progress in our bilateral relationship since his visit. Welcomed the improving people-to-people contacts between India and Afghanistan. Appreciated the exchange of views on the regional situation.”
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs shared images of trucks unloading supplies in Kabul, signalling India’s quick humanitarian response despite complex political ties with the Taliban government. The call between Jaishankar and Muttaqi also highlighted improving people-to-people links and the importance of regional stability.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
In this time of natural calamity, India’s swift humanitarian assistance exemplifies goodwill transcending political complexities, demonstrating solidarity and compassion for those affected.
This tragic disaster underscores how disasters demand cooperation beyond diplomatic barriers, focusing on saving lives and alleviating hardship. The continuing crisis calls for sustained international support and collaborative efforts to build resilience among vulnerable communities.
News in Q&A
- Who was affected by the earthquake and what was its impact?
A powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan early Monday, primarily impacting the provinces of Balkh, Samangan, and Baghlan. At least 20 people were killed and over 500 injured. The quake destroyed dozens of homes and shops, blocked the crucial Balkh–Samangan highway, and caused damage to the historic Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif. The toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue in remote and rugged areas. - When and where did the earthquake occur, and how strong was it?
The earthquake struck near Mazar-e-Sharif, northern Afghanistan, at approximately 12:59 a.m. local time on Monday, with a depth of 28 kilometres. The US Geological Survey measured it as a 6.3 magnitude event. This region is sensitive to seismic activity and has recently faced other deadly earthquakes, including one in August that killed over 2,200 people. - What has been the response, particularly from India?
India immediately responded by sending 15 tonnes of emergency relief, including food supplies and essential medicines, to support the affected communities. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to express condolences and reaffirm India’s support. India’s aid deliveries continued despite the absence of formal diplomatic recognition of the Taliban regime, underscoring humanitarian commitments. - What challenges are hampering rescue and relief operations?
Blocked highways, particularly the Balkh–Samangan route, and difficult terrain have slowed rescue efforts. Many affected areas are remote and poorly accessible, complicating the delivery of aid. The damage to infrastructure has left thousands displaced and in urgent need of shelter, medical aid, and food supplies. The ongoing humanitarian crisis is compounded by Afghanistan’s political and economic challenges. - How is this earthquake connected to Afghanistan’s broader situation?
This earthquake adds to multiple natural disasters Afghanistan has faced recently, including the catastrophic quake in August. It exposes vulnerabilities in infrastructure and disaster preparedness amid political instability since the Taliban assumed control in 2021. The international community’s cooperation, including India’s timely aid, remains crucial to addressing humanitarian needs and fostering regional stability.
