NEW DELHI: India on Monday rushed emergency relief materials to northern Afghanistan after a 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck the provinces of Samangan, Balkh, and Baghlan, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 500 in one of the deadliest tremors to hit the region in recent months.
The consignment comprises about 15 tonnes of food supplies, with additional consignments of essential medicines and food items expected to follow shortly.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with his Afghan counterpart, Amir Khan Muttaqi, to convey India’s condolences for the loss of life, and to reaffirm India’s readiness to stand with the Afghan people in the wake of this disaster.
An official from India’s External Affairs Ministry stated on social media: “Indian relief material for the earthquake-impacted communities is being handed over today. Further supplies of medicines to reach soon.”
The earthquake also destroyed dozens of homes and shops, and blocked the key Balkh–Samangan highway, hampering relief and rescue operations.
India Sends First Consignment of Food Supplies to Earthquake-Affected Afghan Families.
