The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan has issued a message of condolences to the people of Afghanistan in connection with the devastating earthquake that caused numerous casualties in that country.
"We are saddened to receive the news of the death and injury of a large number of people as a result of a strong earthquake in the eastern regions of Afghanistan. The Republic of Tajikistan shares the sorrow of the brotherly Afghan people and expresses its sincere condolences to the families and friends of the victims, and wishes the injured a swift recovery," – the statement said.
An earthquake of magnitude 6.0 with an epicenter in eastern Afghanistan occurred at midnight from August 31 to September 1. The destruction was mainly in the province of Kunar, where several settlements were completely destroyed. There is also destruction and casualties in Nangarhar province.
Rescue operations are underway in the disaster area, but local authorities are not strong enough. By now, according to the Afghan Red Crescent Society, the death toll has reached 1,124 people.
According to the organization, at least 3,251 people were injured in the disaster, and more than 8,000 homes were destroyed.
Taliban Government officials confirmed the presence of a large number of casualties and appealed for urgent international assistance.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has allocated $5 million to provide temporary shelter, food and medical care to victims of the devastating earthquake. The British government is also allocating 1 million pounds to provide urgent assistance to the victims.
China, India and Switzerland have also promised to provide humanitarian assistance. Russia is also considering sending aid to Afghanistan.
