Kabul: As many as 263 were killed when a massive earthquake hit the Afghanistan and Pakistan on Monday. The quake shook the buildings in the regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan and India for nearly upto 45 seconds. It also isolated the areas by knocking out the power supply and communication. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake with magnitude 7.5 was centered deep beneath the Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan’s sparsely populated Badakhshan province, which borders Pakistan, Tajikistan and China.
Rescue work is underway and is intensified by the authorities. The civil and authorities reached the northwest regions of Pakistan to help the victims. The officials are transporting the medicines, tents and other required things to the victims. It is heard that the earthquake damaged nearly 2,000 homes in the Pakistan.
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said that if asked U.N. agencies are ready to support the quake-hit victims in Pakistan and Afghanistan. On Monday, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said that the reports are coming in that there has been loss of life and serious damage to infrastructure in both countries. He expressed condolences to the governments and people of both the countries.
Nearly 237 killed in Pakistan and more than 1,500 injured. On the other hand, at least 33 dead and more than 200 injured in Afghanistan. Indian-controlled Kashmir region reported two deaths, according to reports. The death toll is expected to rise higher.
Tremors were also felt in India’s capital New Delhi and adjoining areas. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed his deepest condolences and concern.
