7 Killed, 150 Injured as Strong Earthquake Hits Northern Afghanistan

New Delhi. A powerful earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale struck northern Afghanistan on Monday, leaving at least seven people dead and more than 150 injured. The tremors caused severe damage across several districts, with Mazar-e-Sharif — one of the country’s major cities — bearing the brunt of the destruction.

Epicenter Near Mazar-e-Sharif

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located 28 kilometers below the ground near Mazar-e-Sharif, a city with a population exceeding 523,000 residents. The shallow depth of the quake made it particularly destructive, shaking homes, schools, and public buildings across the region.

Historic Blue Mosque Suffers Damage

One of the most heartbreaking reports from the area concerns the Blue Mosque (Shrine of Hazrat Ali), a centuries-old and sacred landmark in Mazar-e-Sharif. The mosque sustained significant structural damage, with parts of its dome and outer walls reportedly collapsing during the tremors. Videos and eyewitness accounts circulating on social media show cracks and debris around the holy site, sparking widespread concern for its preservation.

Casualties and Rescue Operations

Samim Joyinda, spokesperson for the regional health department, confirmed that 150 people were hospitalized following the quake, many suffering from fractures and head injuries. Seven fatalities have been officially reported so far, though authorities fear the toll could rise as rescue teams continue to search for survivors trapped under rubble.
Emergency services, local volunteers, and the National Disaster Management Authority of Afghanistan (ANDMA) have been deployed to assist affected communities and provide immediate relief supplies, including food, tents, and medical aid.

Past Earthquakes in Afghanistan

Afghanistan sits in a seismically active zone where earthquakes frequently cause devastation. In August 2024, a powerful quake in the same northern region resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and destroyed countless homes. The country’s fragile infrastructure and limited emergency resources make such disasters especially deadly.

Government and Global Response

Afghan authorities have called for international assistance to aid in relief and reconstruction efforts. Humanitarian organizations are assessing the scale of the damage while coordinating with local agencies to deliver urgent aid.
Neighboring countries, including Pakistan and Iran, also reported feeling mild tremors but did not suffer any major damage.

What Comes Next

Seismologists warn that aftershocks could continue in the coming days, urging residents to remain cautious and avoid entering damaged buildings. Relief operations are ongoing as the nation braces for further assessments of the destruction.

Quick Facts:

• Magnitude: 6.3
• Epicenter: 28 km deep near Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan
• Casualties: 7 dead, 150 injured
• Major Damage: Blue Mosque, residential buildings
• Rescue Efforts: Ongoing under ANDMA supervision

The recent earthquake in Afghanistan highlights the country’s ongoing struggle with natural disasters and inadequate infrastructure. As rescue operations intensify and the nation mourns its losses, the world watches in solidarity, hoping for swift recovery and aid for those affected.

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