On March 21, 2023, a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck and was felt throughout the region. A 6.8-magnitude earthquake has struck Afghanistan and Pakistan, killing nine people, including two women, and injuring over 160 others as well as causing many buildings to collapse.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department put the aftershock at a slightly higher magnitude of 6.8, but later reported an aftershock of 3.7 in the country’s Hindu Kush region near the Afghan border. Earthquakes are caused by the movement of tectonic plates in the region. The Indian plate and the Eurasian plate collided, creating enormous pressure that eventually led to the release of seismic energy in the form of earthquakes.
The earthquake caused significant damage to infrastructure, including buildings, roads and bridges. 11 people died and several hundred were injured in the earthquake. Pakistan was particularly affected by the earthquake, where most of the damage and casualties were reported.
After the earthquake, the Pakistani government and humanitarian organizations started rescue operations to help the affected people. Emergency response teams were deployed to the affected areas to provide medical assistance, shelter and food to those in need. The government has also pledged to provide financial assistance to those who have lost their homes or livelihoods.
The earthquake that hit the border regions of Pakistan, Afghanistan and India has significantly impacted the affected areas. The causes and effects of the earthquake highlighted the need for disaster preparedness and management in the region. Aid operations launched by governments and humanitarian organizations demonstrate the importance of coordinated action in times of crisis.
