The Death Toll from Avalanches in Afghanistan Reaches 122

Following several avalanches in northern Afghanistan, particularly in Panjshir province, at least 122 people have died, and many others are trapped in snow. Rescue operations are ongoing in the area. According to a report by Agence France-Presse on March 6, Abdul Rahman Kabiri, the governor of Panjshir province, stated that these avalanches occurred after two days of heavy snowfall. During the severe snowfall in Panjshir, over a hundred houses have been buried under snow. Communication between villages has been cut off, and access to other areas is limited. Mr. Kabiri told AFP, 'People and rescue forces are using shovels and their bare hands to remove the snow to pull out victims or rescue those who may still be alive.' The governor warned that if timely aid and proper tools do not arrive, the death toll from this incident may rise. He added that nearly 300 rescue workers have been mobilized for assistance, but they lack sufficient and appropriate tools for rescue operations. As night falls and the weather becomes extremely cold, the work has become more challenging, but rescue operations continue. Officials in Panjshir province say that around 28 people may still be trapped under the snow. Reuters also reported that nearly 30 people have been injured or harmed during the rescue operations. Other northern provinces of Afghanistan are also facing problems due to heavy snowfall. In Bamiyan, Nangarhar, and Badghis provinces, 11 people have died. Abdul Rahman Kalantari, head of the Afghan Red Crescent Society, announced that the death toll from avalanches in Panjshir is high and there is a possibility of an increase in the number of victims and fatalities.