PM Modi expresses deep sadness
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed deep sadness over the loss of lives in the recent earthquake that struck Afghanistan, killing over 600 people and injuring more than 1,500.
He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the earthquake in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families in this difficult hour, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands ready to provide all possible humanitarian aid and relief to those affected,” he said in a post on X.
The earthquake, which measured 6 on the Richter scale, struck eastern Afghanistan, with the epicenter located near the Pakistan border. The affected areas include Kunar and Nangarhar provinces, where rescuers are racing against time to find survivors. Afghanistan is prone to deadly earthquakes, particularly in the Hindu Kush mountain range, where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
India has a history of providing assistance to Afghanistan in times of crisis. In 2022, after a devastating earthquake killed over 1,000 people, India expressed its commitment to providing aid and support.
The External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson stated that India stands by the people of Afghanistan in their difficult times and is ready to provide all possible disaster relief material.
The international community has also come forward to offer support, with the United Nations and other humanitarian organizations expressing deep sympathy for the affected people and pledging assistance.
Agencies