Afghanistan faces devastating floods, seeks international aid

Over the past three days, Afghanistan has been devastated by heavy rains and flash flooding, resulting in a tragic loss of life. The government's disaster management department reported that at least 33 people have been killed, with 27 others injured due to the natural disaster.

The flash floods, triggered by the relentless rains, have caused significant damage across the country. Reports indicate that most casualties were a result of roof collapses, while approximately 600 houses were either damaged or completely destroyed. Furthermore, nearly 600 kilometers of roads have been washed away, and around 2,000 acres of farmland have been submerged under water.

This recent catastrophe comes after an unusually dry winter season, which left the terrain parched and delayed planting for many farmers. The impact of the heavy rains has been exacerbated by the reduction in foreign aid since the Taliban regained power in 2021, limiting the country's ability to respond effectively to such disasters.

Afghanistan has been no stranger to natural calamities, with previous incidents including a landslide in February that claimed 25 lives and a three-week period of heavy precipitation in March that resulted in around 60 fatalities. The United Nations has warned about the country's vulnerability to extreme weather conditions, attributing these harsh patterns to climate change.

After enduring decades of war, Afghanistan finds itself ill-equipped to handle the challenges posed by climate change. The nation's lack of preparedness underscores the urgent need for international support and sustainable solutions to mitigate the impact of future disasters.