RASC News Agency: The United Nations’ statement on November 11th highlighted the dire situation faced by earthquake victims in Herat province as winter approaches. Despite more than a month passing since the devastating earthquakes, many individuals still require urgent assistance. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Aid (OCHA) revealed that only 26% of the required budget of $93.6 million has been provided to support the victims during the winter season. Specifically, $40.2 million is needed for shelter provision, but only $7.5 million has been allocated thus far.
Preliminary assessments conducted by OCHA indicate that the Herat earthquake has directly impacted over 48,000 households. The report reveals that nearly 10,000 houses were completely destroyed, while 20,430 houses suffered severe damage. The earthquake also resulted in the loss of numerous lives. It is important to note that this earthquake caused significant injuries to residents across multiple districts of Herat province. This situation is further exacerbated by the reduction in aid provided to households in need due to budget cuts by various aid organizations.
Despite the efforts of these organizations, the lack of proper shelter and clean water continues to affect a large number of earthquake victims in Herat province. Urgent action is required to address this pressing humanitarian crisis and ensure that the affected individuals receive the necessary support to endure the upcoming winter season. According to recent reports, it has come to light that the aid provided by international organizations and foreign countries is being misappropriated by individuals and groups associated with the Taliban.
