27 killed in earthquake hit western Afghanistan

January 18, 2022

Mashal Afghan

KABUL (TSAT) - At least 27 people were killed and dozen other wounded in an earthquake that hit the country western Badghis province near Turkmenistan border late Monday.

According to local officials, the 5.6 Magnitude earthquake hit the province and destroyed nearly 700 houses, shops and other buildings.

“Major damages occurred in the Qadis district, located in the southern part of Badghis province, where rescue and relief operation still under way,” local government spokesman Baz Mohammad told The South Asia Times over phone.

Photos and videos shared on social media show the intensity of the earthquake as its destroyed some house completely while dozens other partially damaged.

Taliban government officials also arrived in the area and said they shifted the effected people to safe places.

The official said that death toll could raise as some injured who already shifted to the hospitals are in critical condition.

Pakistan Ambassador to Afghanistan Mansoor Ahmad Khan expressed grief over the natural disaster and said his country stand with Afghan people in this difficult time.

“Deeply saddened over severe earthquake in Badghis province in Afghanistan resulting in loss of precious lives, many injured and destruction of property. Sympathies & support with Afghans at this natural disaster,” Khan tweeted.