Over 800 killed, 2,800 injured as strong earthquake hits eastern Afghanistan
The casualties from the damage caused by the quake, measuring six in magnitude, are expected to increase, said the Afghan government.
Over 800 persons were killed and around 2,800 injured after a strong earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Monday, Reuters quoted the country’s interior ministry spokesperson as saying.
The deaths and injuries may increase as rescue teams reach the mountainous area, the Taliban-controlled administration was quoted as saying earlier.
An earthquake destroyed numerous villages in eastern Afghanistan, killed hundreds of people and injured thousands, a spokesman for the Taliban government said Monday.
— The Associated Press (@AP) September 1, 2025
The quake late Sunday hit a series of towns in the province of Kunar, near the city of Jalalabad. pic.twitter.com/o5fzBrsiOm
The epicentre of the quake measuring six in magnitude was near Jalalabad, close to the country’s border with Pakistan. It took place at about 12.45 am Indian time at a depth of about 8 km. Shallow earthquakes tend to be more destructive.
It destroyed several villages and caused widespread damage, AP quoted Afghan officials as saying. The deaths reported so far were from the districts of Nur Gul, Soki, Watpur, Manogi and Chapadare.
“Rescue operations are still underway there, and several villages have been completely destroyed,” AP quoted Sharafat Zaman, a spokesperson for the public health ministry, as saying.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed support and condolences to those affected by the earthquake.
“India stands ready to provide all possible humanitarian aid and relief to those affected,” he added.
