Afghanistan: Heavy snowfall claims 15 lives, injures dozens

Widespread heavy snowfall across several provinces in the country over the past three days has resulted in the tragic loss of 15 lives and injuries to nearly 30 individuals, TOLOnews reported.

Additionally, statistics obtained from Balkh and Faryab provinces by TOLOnews indicate a devastating impact on livestock, with nearly ten thousand animals perishing due to the recent snowfalls.

Abdul Qadir, a resident of Sar-e-Pul, expressed the prevailing anxiety among the population, stating, “The snow is ongoing and very heavy, and people are anxious as their livestock have suffered losses, many roads are blocked, and there is hardly any movement.”

Another resident, Amanullah, emphasised the urgent need for government assistance, especially for those affected by road blockages and the plight of hungry 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 authorities have allocated fifty million Afghanis to support livestock owners in the provinces of Balkh, Jawzjan, Badghis, Faryab, and Herat.

Misbahuddin Mustaeen, the Taliban-appointed spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, highlighted the swift response of committees formed in all provinces. These committees are actively working to open blocked roads, distribute food and fodder to affected communities, and rescue those stranded in the aftermath of the heavy snowfall.