As Afghanistan grapples with heavy rains and snowfall, the toll on human life and livelihoods continues to mount, with at least 39 fatalities reported across different provinces. According to Khaama Press, over 30 individuals have been injured as communication routes in various provinces and districts remain blocked due to the recent snowfall.
Janan Sayeq, spokesperson for the Ministry of Disaster Management, lamented the devastating impact of the inclement weather, revealing that thousands of livestock have also perished as a result. “The recent snow and rain have completely or partially destroyed 637 residential homes and claimed the lives of 14,000 livestock,” Sayeq stated.
Amidst the chaos, the reopening of the Salang Highway to passenger cars on Monday brought a glimmer of hope after four days of snowfall and blizzards. However, the dire situation underscores the critical importance of crisis management and adequate planning to mitigate the risks posed by natural disasters.
The aftermath of the recent snowfall highlights the urgent need for enhanced infrastructure resilience and disaster response mechanisms to effectively address future calamities. Balkh and Faryab provinces, as reported by TOLOnews, have witnessed a devastating impact on livestock, with nearly ten thousand animals perishing due to the relentless snowfall.
Residents across affected regions expressed profound concern and anxiety over the unfolding crisis. Abdul Qadir, a resident of Sar-e-Pul, described the heavy snowfall as ongoing and expressed distress over the losses suffered by livestock owners and the widespread road blockages hindering movement.
Amanullah, another resident, echoed the sentiments of urgency, emphasizing the immediate need for government assistance to alleviate the plight of those affected by road blockages and the starvation of livestock.
In response to the crisis, Afghanistan has announced the formation of a committee comprising various ministries to address the damages, particularly to livestock owners. The government has allocated fifty million Afghanis to support affected individuals in provinces such as Balkh, Jawzjan, Badghis, Faryab, and Herat, underscoring the commitment to providing relief and assistance to those most in need during these challenging times.
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