In a tragic turn of events, Afghanistan has been ravaged by devastating flash floods, claiming the lives of over 300 people. The provinces of Badakhshan, Ghor, Baghlan, and Herat have borne the brunt of this natural disaster, with thousands of homes destroyed, agricultural lands submerged, and livestock lost.
The World Food Programme reported the grim toll, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in the affected regions. International aid groups, including the World Health Organization and Save the Children, have swiftly responded, providing medicines, emergency kits, and mobile health clinics to address the growing crisis.
Arshad Malik, country director for Save the Children, described the harrowing impact of the floods, stating, “Lives and livelihoods have been washed away. Children have lost everything, and families already struggling from economic hardships urgently require assistance.”
Salma Ben Aissa, director of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Afghanistan, emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that these floods have exacerbated an already challenging humanitarian landscape, marked by recent earthquakes and previous flooding earlier this year.
Former President Hamid Karzai has called for urgent humanitarian aid, acknowledging the personal and financial losses suffered by many citizens. UNICEF has reported that among the casualties are 51 children, underscoring the vulnerability of the young population in these disaster-stricken areas.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation has also issued a plea for immediate assistance to the flood victims, recognizing the dire need for support from member nations and the global community.
These floods mark a tragic continuation of Afghanistan’s struggle with natural disasters, following heavy rains and flash floods that claimed lives in April. As the country grapples with this ongoing crisis, concerted efforts from humanitarian agencies and nations worldwide are crucial to providing relief and rebuilding shattered communities.
Sources By Agencies
