India Sends Urgent Earthquake Relief to Afghanistan
India has dispatched emergency aid to northern Afghanistan following a devastating 6.3-magnitude earthquake that killed at least 20 people and injured over 500 across three provinces.
Key Takeaways
- 6.3-magnitude quake hits Samangan, Balkh, and Baghlan provinces
- At least 20 dead, 500+ injured in one of region’s deadliest tremors
- India delivers 15 tonnes of food supplies with more aid en route
- Jaishankar assures continued support in call with Afghan counterpart
Emergency Response and Damage Assessment
The earthquake struck early Monday, destroying dozens of homes and shops while blocking the crucial Balkh-Samangan highway, severely hampering rescue operations. This marks the second major quake to hit Afghanistan since September, when India had also provided humanitarian assistance.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke with Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi hours after the disaster, conveying India’s condolences and commitment to support recovery efforts.
“Indian relief material for the earthquake-hit communities is being handed over. Further supplies of medicines to reach soon,” Jaishankar stated on social media platform X.
Aid Delivery and Bilateral Engagement
Photographs released by the External Affairs Ministry showed Indian aid being unloaded in Kabul, demonstrating New Delhi’s swift humanitarian response despite lacking formal diplomatic ties with the Taliban regime.
According to Afghan officials, India has delivered 15 tonnes of food supplies, with additional shipments of essential medicines and food items expected shortly. The relief focuses on Samangan province, where the earthquake’s impact was most severe.
The emergency assistance reflects India’s cautious but growing engagement with Taliban leadership. Muttaqi, who visited India last month, discussed bilateral cooperation and regional stability with Jaishankar during their latest exchange.
“Discussed progress in our bilateral relationship since his visit. Welcomed the improving people-to-people contacts between India and Afghanistan,” Jaishankar noted, adding that both sides “appreciated the exchange of views on the regional situation.”
India has maintained its position as a major humanitarian provider to Afghanistan since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, consistently delivering wheat, medicines, vaccines, and disaster relief through various channels.
