Central Afghanistan Devastated by Deadly Floods, Leaving 50 Dead and Thousands Displaced
ICARO Media Group
In yet another tragic incident of heavy rainfall and flooding, at least 50 people have lost their lives and thousands of homes have been destroyed in central Afghanistan, according to authorities. The torrential seasonal rains have wreaked havoc across the country, causing widespread destruction, hundreds of casualties, and leaving many communities in ruins.
Abdul Rahman Badri, a police spokesman, confirmed that the province of Ghor has suffered the most with a death toll of 50. However, the number of casualties is expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue. The floods have not only claimed human lives but also caused significant losses in terms of livestock. Thousands of cattle have perished, and extensive damage has been done to agricultural land, bridges, culverts, and trees.
Abdul Wahid Hamas, spokesman for Ghor's provincial governor, reported that dozens of people are still missing. The latest round of heavy rainfall began on Friday, resulting in key roads being cut off and isolating the affected areas. The city of Firoz Koh, the capital of Ghor province, has been severely impacted, with 2,000 houses completely destroyed, 4,000 partially damaged, and over 2,000 shops submerged.
Last week, the Taliban's Ministry for Refugees released a statement stating that the death toll from flooding in northern Afghanistan had risen to 315, with over 1,600 people injured. Afghanistan, already prone to natural disasters, is considered one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, as recognized by the United Nations.
Adding to the already dire situation, a helicopter crash occurred during rescue efforts in Ghor, killing one person and injuring 12 others due to technical issues, according to the Ministry of Defense. Displaced survivors of earlier floods have been left without adequate humanitarian aid, depriving them of homes, land, and livelihoods. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has expressed concerns about the lack of support for these affected individuals in need.
The situation in Baghlan, the worst-hit province in the north, remains critical, with major portions of the area inaccessible by trucks, as stated by the WFP. The UN Development Programme (UNDP) is working closely with Afghan and international NGOs to assess the ground situation. Immediate response efforts include debris removal, the establishment of community kitchens and health facilities, and the allocation of resources for emergency services such as temporary housing facilities for the displaced.
The devastating impact of the recent floods highlights the urgent need for improved disaster management and infrastructure development in Afghanistan. The government, along with international organizations, must work together to support those affected, provide essential aid, and prepare for future climatic challenges.
(Note: This news article is generated based on the provided information and does not include any additional external sources or interviews.