At least 150 fatalities after severe floods hit Afghanistan’s Nuristan Province
Severe floods and mudflows caused by heavy rainfall left at least 150 people dead in northeastern Afghanistan on July 28, 2021.
The worst-affected was mountainous Nuristan Province in the eastern part of the country, particularly its Kamdesh District.
According to media reports, 200 homes were destroyed and roads damaged in the district's Miardish village.
Forty bodies have been recovered from villagers, but people are still missing and the death toll could exceed 200.
Nuristan governor said rescue operations are in progress, but downed cellular networks are hampering communication in the region.
According to Afghan officials, it was difficult to get reliable information about the disaster because the Kamdesh district had fallen under Taliban control and had poor telecommunications links.
After an appeal by the Nuristan government, the Taliban said they would provide safe access to humanitarian organizations.
While Afghan officials initially reported 60 fatalities, the Taliban said the death toll is at least 150.
Nuristan Provincial Council Chief Engineer Sadullah – “heavy rains caused flash floods. Village of Miardish in Kamdish district hit, 200 homes destroyed. 40 bodies recovered by villagers. Tens of people missing. Death toll could exceed 200. I call on gov and humanitarian pic.twitter.com/ypg4YALE3O
— BILAL SARWARY (@bsarwary) July 29, 2021
Featured image credit: NewsHour4U
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.