Tragedy Strikes Afghanistan as Heavy Snowfall Claims Lives and Livestock

Widespread heavy snowfall in Afghanistan over the last three days has resulted in the tragic loss of 15 lives, with nearly 30 individuals injured and almost ten thousand animals perishing. The severe weather conditions have also led to road closures and stranded communities in several provinces.

Government Response and Committee Formation

In response to the crisis, Afghanistan has announced the formation of a committee comprising various ministries to address the damages, particularly focusing on the plight of livestock owners. The government has allocated fifty million Afghanis to support affected individuals in provinces including Balkh, Jawzjan, Badghis, Faryab, and Herat.

Residents Express Urgent Need for Assistance

Local residents, such as Abdul Qadir from Sar-e-Pul and Amanullah, have emphasized the urgent need for government assistance. They highlighted the significant losses to livestock, blocked roads, and the scarcity of movement in affected areas. Many roads, including key transportation routes like the Salang Pass, have been temporarily closed due to heavy snowfall.

Committees Actively Working on Relief Efforts

Misbahuddin Mustaeen, the Taliban-appointed spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, commended 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.

Winter Service Workers Provide Assistance

Erfanullah Sharafzoi, spokesperson for the Afghan Red Crescent Society, reported that winter service workers have already provided assistance in provinces such as Badghis, Ghor, Farah, Kandahar, Helmand, Jawzjan, and Nuristan. They have reached individuals affected by the recent snowfalls, offering crucial aid to those in need.

Key Transportation Routes Closed

The severe snowfall has led to the closure of key transportation routes, including the Salang Pass and access to provinces such as Ghor, Badghis, Ghazni, Herat, and Bamyan. Mohammad Ashraf Haqshenas, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, confirmed the temporary blockage of these routes due to heavy snowfall over the past two days.

Esmatullah Muradi, spokesperson for the provincial governor of Faryab, highlighted road closures in most districts due to heavy snowfall, leaving residents in remote areas stranded. Tragically, one person lost their life in the Chahar Sada district on the Turkmenistan border. The situation remains critical as efforts continue to address the aftermath of the severe weather conditions.