RASC News Agency: The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that, one year after the catastrophic earthquakes in Herat, thousands of affected families remain in critical need of lifesaving assistance. The report underscores that survivors face severe shortages of essential humanitarian aid and adequate shelter.
In its latest update on Wednesday, November 20, OCHA revealed that international humanitarian organizations, including the Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund and the UN Central Emergency Response Fund, have so far allocated $14.7 million to support those impacted. However, the scale of need continues to surpass the resources provided, leaving significant gaps in aid delivery. OCHA stressed that existing humanitarian support is insufficient. With winter fast approaching, conditions are becoming increasingly precarious for over 25,000 Afghanistani families still without proper shelter, placing them at heightened risk of severe hardship.
Earlier assessments by the United Nations revealed the devastating impact of the Herat earthquakes: 1,480 fatalities, nearly 2,000 injuries, and the destruction of 382 villages. Over 275,000 people remain in urgent need of emergency assistance. These disasters have intensified the vulnerabilities of communities already struggling with the consequences of decades-long conflict and dire economic conditions. OCHA has reiterated the need for immediate financial support to address Afghanistan’s escalating humanitarian crisis, warning that funding shortfalls could jeopardize ongoing relief efforts through the end of the year.
The organization further highlighted that 86% of the 1,401 casualties reported between January 2022 and February 2023 occurred during this period. Among these victims, more than 50 were children who either lost their lives or were left with permanent disabilities. Previously, OCHA had reported the dire economic circumstances of most Herat earthquake survivors, emphasizing that their worsening financial instability is exacerbating the challenges of rebuilding their lives.
