Over 800 killed, 2,800 injured as strong earthquake hits eastern Afghanistan

Over 800 persons were killed and around 2,800 injured after a strong earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Monday, Reuters quoted the country’s interior ministry spokesperson as saying.

The deaths and injuries may increase as rescue teams reach the mountainous area, the Taliban-controlled administration was quoted as saying earlier.

The epicentre of the quake measuring six in magnitude was near Jalalabad, close to the country’s border with Pakistan. It took place at about 12.45 am Indian time at a depth of about 8 km. Shallow earthquakes tend to be more destructive.

It destroyed several villages and caused widespread damage, AP quoted Afghan officials as saying. The deaths reported so far were from the districts of Nur Gul, Soki, Watpur, Manogi and Chapadare.

“Rescue operations are still underway there, and several villages have been completely destroyed,” AP quoted Sharafat Zaman, a spokesperson for the public health ministry, as saying.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed support and condolences to those affected by the earthquake.

“India stands ready to provide all possible humanitarian aid and relief to those affected,” he added.
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