Over the past three days, several provinces in Afghanistan have been hit by widespread heavy snowfall, leading to tragic consequences. According to reports from TOLOnews, at least 15 lives have been lost, and nearly 30 individuals have sustained injuries due to the severe weather conditions.
The impact of the snowfall extends beyond human casualties, with devastating livestock losses reported in Balkh and Faryab provinces. Statistics gathered indicate that nearly ten thousand animals have perished as a result of the recent snowfalls, exacerbating the challenges faced by local communities.
Residents in affected areas, such as Sar-e-Pul, express deep concern over the ongoing heavy snowfall. Abdul Qadir, a resident, highlighted the anxiety gripping the population, citing losses to livestock, blocked roads, and limited movement as significant issues.
Acknowledging the urgent need for assistance, another resident named Amanullah emphasized the importance of government intervention, particularly for those stranded by road blockages and the plight of starving livestock.
Responding 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.
Misbahuddin Mustaeen, the Taliban-appointed spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, praised the swift response of committees formed across all provinces. These committees are actively engaged in efforts to clear blocked roads, distribute food and fodder to affected communities, and rescue stranded individuals.
Erfanullah Sharafzoi, spokesperson for the Afghan Red Crescent Society, highlighted the efforts of winter service workers who have provided assistance in provinces such as Badghis, Ghor, Farah, Kandahar, Helmand, Jawzjan, and Nuristan, reaching those affected by the recent snowfalls.
The severe snowfall has resulted in the closure of key transportation routes, including the Salang Pass, impacting access to various 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, reported significant road closures in the province, leaving residents in remote areas stranded. Tragically, one person lost their life in the Chahar Sada district on the Turkmenistan border, further highlighting the severity of the situation.
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