221,000 Earthquake Survivors in Eastern Afghanistan Still Need Urgent Aid

The UN says 221,000 survivors of eastern Afghanistan’s recent earthquake remain in urgent need of humanitarian assistance amid funding and logistical challenges.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported on Wednesday that 221,000 people affected by the eastern Afghanistan earthquake still require immediate aid. A total of 499,000 were impacted by the disaster, according to the UN agency.

Despite ongoing relief efforts, response operations have been hampered by severe funding shortages. Only $38 million of the $111.5 million needed for emergency response has been received so far. Many families remain without adequate shelter and essential supplies.

Women and girls face heightened risks, as humanitarian access to vulnerable populations remains limited. Disruptions to aid delivery have compounded these challenges, leaving thousands at increased risk of exposure and deprivation.

Rising tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan have further complicated the crisis. Islamabad has accelerated the deportation of Afghan migrants, while the closure of border crossings has disrupted trade and restricted the movement of relief supplies.

Intermittent internet shutdowns in Afghanistan over the past two days have also hampered communication and coordination among humanitarian agencies, delaying aid distribution and affecting emergency response efforts.

Humanitarian officials warn that without additional funding and access, the situation could worsen, leaving tens of thousands of earthquake survivors without basic necessities and protection.

Aid agencies continue to call on the international community to provide resources and support, stressing that timely assistance is critical to prevent further suffering among the affected populations.

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