Post by : Rameen Ariff

A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck near Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, on Monday, leaving at least seven people dead and around 150 injured, according to local reports. The tremor has once again brought attention to Afghanistan’s long-standing vulnerability to seismic disasters.

The earthquake’s epicenter was located in the northern region of the country, where poorly built infrastructure and rugged terrain amplify the impact of such natural calamities. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to assess the damage and provide medical assistance to the injured.

Series of Devastating Quakes

This latest disaster follows a series of devastating earthquakes that hit the nation last August, killing more than 2,200 people. Afghanistan’s position along the active fault lines between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates makes it one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world.

Why Afghanistan Faces Frequent Earthquakes

Geologists explain that the Indian plate continues to push northward into the Eurasian plate, causing immense underground pressure. When this pressure releases, it triggers powerful earthquakes. The constant tectonic activity results in hundreds of measurable tremors each year, many of which go unreported due to remote locations and lack of monitoring systems.

A History of Destruction

Afghanistan’s history is filled with tragic earthquake events. In 2022, a 5.9-magnitude quake killed over 1,000 people, while a 1998 earthquake claimed 4,700 lives. Experts estimate that earthquakes are the deadliest natural disaster in the country, with an average annual death toll of around 560 people and damages exceeding $80 million.

The eastern and northeastern regions, including Kabul, remain at the highest risk. Kabul alone suffers approximately $17 million in annual earthquake damages, underscoring the urgent need for stronger infrastructure.

Call for Preparedness and Safer Construction

Experts stress the importance of earthquake-resistant construction, early warning systems, and public education to minimize future casualties. Retrofitting older buildings and enforcing modern safety standards are also critical steps toward improving resilience.

A Growing Humanitarian Concern

With Afghanistan already struggling under economic and political pressures, natural disasters like these further strain resources and humanitarian aid efforts. As the country mourns the loss of lives, global organizations are calling for immediate support to help rebuild affected communities and strengthen disaster preparedness.

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