Deadly Floods Ravage Afghanistan, Leaving Over 50 Dead and Thousands Displaced

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ICARO Media Group
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18/05/2024 18h10

In yet another tragic natural disaster to hit Afghanistan, heavy rains and flooding in the province of Ghor have claimed the lives of at least 50 people, with many others still missing. The Afghan Ministry of Refugees reported the devastating impact of the floods, stating that 2,000 homes were completely destroyed, with an additional 4,000 partially damaged.

According to the ministry, the floods have also resulted in the destruction of hundreds of hectares of agricultural land, numerous bridges, culverts, and dams, as well as hundreds of thousands of productive and non-productive trees. Additionally, thousands of cattle have perished in the deluge.

Expressing their deep condolences, government spokesperson Zabihullah Mojahid lamented the loss of lives and destruction caused by the floods in Ghor province. This recent disaster adds to the grim toll of flash flooding that has afflicted Afghanistan in recent weeks. Reports from the United Nations reveal that hundreds of people have already lost their lives to flooding in various parts of the country.

Northern provinces, including Ghor, Badakhshan, Baghlan, and Herat, have been severely affected by these torrential floods. The ruling Taliban, acknowledging the gravity of the situation, referred to the flooding's significant impact in a statement issued by spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid.

These flash floods are the latest in a series of natural disasters to strike the region. In April, unseasonal rainfall and floods claimed over 100 lives in both Afghanistan and Pakistan, along with the loss of more than 600 animals. Moreover, in July, similar flash floods swept away dozens of people in Afghanistan mere months before a powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck the western part of the country, resulting in widespread devastation and the loss of thousands of lives.

As Afghanistan continues to grapple with the aftermath of these catastrophic events, urgent relief efforts and the provision of aid to those affected have become imperative. The international community, along with local authorities, is working tirelessly to assist in the recovery and ensure the safety and wellbeing of the affected population.

Efforts to improve infrastructure and early warning systems to mitigate the impact of such disasters in the future are urgently needed. The resilience of the Afghan people remains unwavering in the face of such devastating natural calamities, as they strive to rebuild their lives with the hope of a more secure and stable future.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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