Afghanistan Hit by Another Earthquake; Aid Efforts Underway

Afghanistan experienced another earthquake on Thursday, registering a magnitude of 4.8, as reported by the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The quake’s depth was recorded at 135km. A prior earthquake occurred late Wednesday night, characterized by a shallow depth of 10km. Shallow earthquakes pose a heightened risk due to their potential for more intense ground shaking and subsequent damage. In response to the devastation, the World Food Programme (WFP) has initiated emergency aid to the affected provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar, where the death toll has exceeded 1,400 and injuries are over 3,000. The aid includes food supplies and high-energy biscuits, with further assistance planned. Rescue efforts face obstacles including inaccessible roads and ongoing aftershocks. India has also provided assistance, delivering 21 tonnes of relief supplies to Kabul by air, including essential items such as blankets, medical supplies and water purification tablets.