Earthquake in Afghanistan and Pakistan Leaves 280 Dead So Far

The 7.5 magnitude earthquake that shook parts of Afghanistan and Pakistan has so far left nearly 280 dead. However, news agencies report that as night falls, the extent of the damage and the number of victims may still increase. In Pakistan, where it seems the number of casualties is higher than in Afghanistan, at least 214 people have lost their lives, and according to initial reports, more than 1,800 have been injured. AFP reports that as night arrives, rescuers have not yet reached some remote areas in both countries. According to Radio Azadi (Dari section of Radio Free Europe), Abdullah Abdullah, the Chief Executive of the Afghan government, has described the earthquake on October 4 as 'unprecedented' and emphasized that a 'national mobilization to assist those in need' must be formed. The earthquake, which was felt strongly even in New Delhi, has terrified people. The death of 12 Afghan schoolgirls, who were trampled by fellow students fleeing in panic from a school in the city of Taluqan, has been widely reported in the media. In Pakistan, health officials have stated that 'a large number are being transferred to hospitals, and many are still trapped under the rubble.' It seems that the deep focus of the earthquake has mitigated the potential for a larger disaster. Ten years ago, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in the Kashmir region left over 70,000 dead. According to the United States Geological Survey, deep-focus earthquakes typically cause less damage. The earthquake's focus was reported at a depth of 196 kilometers. Nevertheless, images released in the media, including on Tolo News in Afghanistan, show houses that have completely collapsed and been destroyed. The Afghan government has stated that up to 4,000 houses have been completely destroyed or severely damaged.