A powerful magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan near Jalalabad on August 31, 2025, killing at least 800 people and injuring about 2,500 across Kunar and Nangarhar provinces. The tremor, which struck at a shallow depth of 8 km near the Pakistan border, caused widespread destruction in mountainous regions with dozens of villages razed.
Rescue efforts are ongoing amid challenging terrain and aftershocks, with the United Nations delivering emergency aid and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extending support to the affected communities.
“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the earthquake in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families in this difficult hour, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands ready to provide all possible humanitarian aid and relief to those affected,” wrote PM Narendra Modi on X.
Widespread Destruction in Mountainous Regions and Rescue Efforts
The earthquake’s epicentre was located approximately 27 km northeast of Jalalabad, hitting around midnight local time and shaking areas as far as Islamabad and northern India. Regions including Nur Gul, Soki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapadare in Kunar province suffered the gravest damage, with hundreds of homes destroyed and communications severely disrupted by landslides blocking mountain roads. Local officials reported dozens of deaths and injuries in individual villages, while helicopters are being used for urgent evacuations.
The Taliban government confirmed loss of life and property damage and has deployed support teams from Kabul and nearby provinces. In response to the deadly quake, the United Nations has sent help to the affected regions, “The UN in Afghanistan is deeply saddened by the devastating earthquake that struck the eastern region & claimed hundreds of lives, injuring many more. Our teams are on the ground, delivering emergency assistance & lifesaving support. Our thoughts are with the affected communities.”
Challenges Amid Historical Vulnerability
Afghanistan, situated where the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates meet in the Hindu Kush mountain range, is highly prone to earthquakes. Previous devastating quakes, including a 6.3 magnitude event in 2023, have claimed thousands of lives.
The ongoing political instability, international sanctions, and chronic humanitarian crisis compound challenges to effective disaster response. Remote villages with poor infrastructure magnify difficulties in timely rescue and aid distribution, even as the government appeals for international humanitarian assistance.
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also expressed his condolences to the affected families. Taking to his social media, Jaishankar wrote, “The devastating earthquake in Kunar Province of Afghanistan is a matter of deep concern. Express our support and solidarity to the Afghan people as they respond to it. India will extend assistance in this hour of need. Our condolences to the families of the victims. And our prayers for early recovery of the injured.”
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This earthquake tragedy reveals the urgent need for a united global response focused on sustainable disaster preparedness and humanitarian aid. It highlights the critical importance of transcending political boundaries to support vulnerable populations facing repeated natural calamities. Compassion, resilience, and cooperation must guide efforts to help Afghanistan rebuild.
