Unusually heavy seasonal rains have triggered flash floods in northern Afghanistan, claiming the lives of more than 300 people and decimating over 1,000 homes, according to reports from the UN food agency. The floods have wrought havoc across various provinces, with Baghlan province bearing the brunt of the deluges.
Humanitarian Response Amidst Tragedy
The World Food Programme has swiftly mobilized aid efforts, distributing fortified biscuits to survivors in flood-affected areas. Baghlan province, where the floods inflicted severe devastation, has become a focal point for relief operations. Meanwhile, neighbouring Takhar province has also suffered significant casualties, with state-owned media reporting at least 20 deaths.
Taliban’s Response and Rescue Efforts
Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief spokesman for the Taliban government, conveyed via social media the widespread impact of the floods, identifying several provinces as the worst affected. The Taliban government has initiated comprehensive rescue operations, mobilizing resources to aid in evacuation, medical assistance, and recovery efforts. The Taliban Defence Ministry reported the deployment of the country’s air force to evacuate stranded individuals and transport the injured to military hospitals.
Addressing Climate Vulnerability
Richard Bennett, the UN special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, emphasized the urgent need for immediate aid and long-term planning to address the country’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters. The floods serve as a stark reminder of Afghanistan’s susceptibility to the climate crisis, necessitating collaborative efforts from both the Taliban government and international stakeholders to mitigate future risks.
Grave Concerns and Ongoing Challenges
Distressing scenes of devastation have emerged from flood-affected areas, with officials urging residents to prepare for the grim task of burying their loved ones. The scale of the tragedy underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Afghanistan, with previous reports indicating significant casualties and widespread damage from heavy rains and flooding in April. As communities reel from the aftermath of these catastrophic events, concerted efforts are required to provide immediate relief and facilitate long-term recovery efforts.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Ahram Online
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