Survivors of a recent earthquake in Afghanistan are grappling with the dual challenges of inadequate shelter due to devastating infrastructure damage and the onset of harsh winter weather. The 6.3 magnitude quake, which struck the northern provinces of Samangan and Balkh, resulted in at least 27 fatalities. In Samangan’s Khulm district, residents like Gulabuddin, who lost family members and their home, are urgently seeking refuge as heavy rainfall complicates their situation. The impact of the earthquake is compounded by a previous tremor in August that claimed over 2,200 lives. Villagers now face extreme cold, with many living in unsafe structures or makeshift tents with insufficient winter gear. Aid organizations express concerns about their capacity to provide further support due to funding withdrawals from major donors. Although camps have been set up, the International Organization for Migration indicates that a significant majority of survivors prefer to remain in their locations, highlighting an urgent need for winter supplies and more permanent housing solutions. Residents emphasize the necessity of reconstructing homes using stronger materials, such as concrete, to withstand future seismic events.
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