221,000 earthquake survivors need urgent aid in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — About 221,000 survivors of eastern Afghanistan’s recent earthquake remain in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, the United Nations said, warning that funding gaps and logistical hurdles are slowing the response.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said nearly 499,000 people were affected by the quake, but relief efforts have been constrained by a lack of resources. Only $38 million has been secured toward the $111.5 million required for the emergency response, OCHA said.

Many families remain without adequate shelter and basic supplies, while women and girls face heightened risks due to limited humanitarian access to vulnerable communities. Disruptions to aid delivery have left thousands exposed to worsening conditions, the agency said.

The crisis has been further complicated by rising tensions between the Taliban authorities and Pakistan.

Islamabad has stepped up deportations of Afghan migrants, and border closures have disrupted trade and restricted the movement of relief supplies.

Intermittent internet shutdowns across Afghanistan over the past two days have also hindered communication and coordination among aid agencies, delaying distributions and emergency operations.

Humanitarian officials warned that without additional funding and improved access, conditions could deteriorate further, leaving tens of thousands of survivors without basic necessities and protection.

Aid groups have renewed appeals to the international community for urgent support, saying timely assistance is critical to prevent further suffering among those affected.