Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Herat Province Due to Earthquake: Urgent Aid Required

A powerful earthquakes struck Herat province, Afghanistan on October 11, 2023, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The region had already endured devastation from a previous quake on October 7, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction. CARE is mobilizing resources to provide medical aid and essential supplies to thousands in need, while emphasizing the urgency for increased international support amidst current underfunding and harsh weather conditions.

On October 11, 2023, a powerful earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale struck near the city of Herat in western Afghanistan. This earthquake has compounded the suffering of the region’s residents, following a previous quake on October 7 that had already devastated the area, claiming over 1,000 lives and leaving approximately 12,000 individuals affected. The recent seismic event has left many homes in ruins, thereby increasing the demand for urgent humanitarian aid and support. CARE, an international humanitarian organization, has actively mobilized resources to address the emergency needs of the affected population. Reshma Azmi, the Deputy Country Director for CARE Afghanistan, stated, “The people of Herat have already endured significant hardships, and this subsequent earthquake has only further exacerbated their plight. We are actively mobilizing our resources and have deployed 5 mobile health clinics to provide critical medical assistance.” The focus of CARE’s response is to assist the most vulnerable, particularly women and girls, who often face heightened risks in such crises. In the immediate aftermath of the recent earthquake, CARE has prioritized the distribution of essential supplies such as dignity kits, blankets, tarpaulins, ready meals, and water to an estimated 2,500 affected individuals. Furthermore, with the local hospital overwhelmed, the provision of medical supplies stands as a crucial requirement. The worsening situation is intensified by severe underfunding of the humanitarian response and the approaching cold weather, complicating efforts to meet basic needs for shelter, food, and water. CARE has had a presence in Herat since 2020, employing 133 staff members who are currently all reported safe. The organization has swiftly adapted its health initiatives to directly support the victims of the earthquake. This disheartening situation necessitates an immediate influx of aid and resources to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region, highlighting a dire need for international assistance to address the escalating needs of the affected communities.

The recent earthquakes in Herat province represent a significant humanitarian crisis, worsening the plight of individuals who have already faced substantial adversities. Following the initial earthquake on October 7, the subsequent quake on October 11 only increased the urgency for aid and medical assistance. Afghanistan has been grappling with challenges such as underfunded humanitarian initiatives, heightened vulnerability due to cold weather, and the need for a comprehensive response to the ongoing disasters. Organizations like CARE are mobilizing swiftly to provide aid, demonstrating the immediate need for increased support and resources to adequately address the extensive needs in the region.

In summary, the series of devastating earthquakes in Herat province has left thousands in dire circumstances, necessitating immediate humanitarian aid. CARE’s efforts to provide medical assistance and essential supplies are vital in addressing the urgent needs of the affected individuals. The call for international aid is crucial as the situation evolves, emphasizing the necessity for a robust response to prevent further suffering and provide for the basic needs of those impacted by this disaster.

Original Source: www.care.org