Afghanistan Earthquake Death Toll: A devastating earthquake measuring 6.0 magnitude shook eastern Afghanistan in the early hours of Monday, leaving at least 800 people dead and more than 1,500 injured, according to officials quoted by several media reports. According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) of India, this initial earthquake was followed by aftershocks with magnitudes ranging between 4 and 5. Following the 6.3 magnitude tremors, a 4.7 magnitude earthquake occurred at a depth of around 140 km, not far from the epicentre of the initial tremor.
Taliban authorities have dispatched helicopters to evacuate the injured while rescue teams continue to sift through debris in search of survivors. The catastrophe adds new strain to Afghanistan’s already limited resources, as the country struggles with multiple humanitarian challenges — from dwindling international aid to the mass return of its citizens from neighboring states.
Devastation Across Afghanistan
In Kabul, health officials reported that rescue teams were working urgently to reach isolated hamlets in a region long prone to both earthquakes and floods. According to the health ministry, three villages in Kunar province were completely flattened, while many others sustained heavy damage.
Rescue efforts were particularly intense along the border with Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where the shallow midnight quake — striking at a depth of just 10 kilometers (6 miles) — reduced mud and stone houses to rubble.
India Expresses Grief
India expressed its solidarity with Afghanistan over the loss of lives. "The devastating earthquake in Kunar Province of Afghanistan is a matter of deep concern. Express our support and solidarity to the Afghan people as they respond to it. India will extend assistance in this hour of need. Our condolences to the families of the victims. And our prayers for early recovery of the injured," said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on X.
Details from Seismology Centre
The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported that the quake occurred at 12:47 am IST (11:47 pm local time). Its epicenter was pinpointed at latitude 34.50°N and longitude 70.81°E, with tremors originating at a depth of 160 kilometers beneath the surface.
Also Read: From Afghanistan to Delhi, Earthquake Tremors Shake Millions | Check Details
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), NCS confirmed: “Earthquake of magnitude 6.3, on 01/09/2025 at 00:47:41 IST. Location: Afghanistan, depth: 160 km, coordinates: 34.50 N, 70.81 E.”
Tremors Felt Across the Region
The earthquake’s force was not confined to Afghanistan alone. Strong vibrations rippled across neighboring regions, including Pakistan and northern India. People in Delhi-NCR and several other Indian cities reported noticeable shaking, prompting many residents to rush outdoors in panic.
Authorities in the affected areas have launched rescue operations, though officials warn that the casualty count may rise as more information becomes available. (With agency inputs)
