3 min read

HealthNet TPO’s emergency response after devastating earthquake in Afghanistan

HealthNet TPO has launched a large-scale emergency relief operation in eastern Afghanistan following a powerful earthquake measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale. The quake struck the provinces of Kunar, Laghman, Nangarhar, and Nuristan shortly before midnight on 31 August, killing more than 800 people so far and injuring hundreds more. The death toll is expected to rise as isolated villages become accessible. 

Rapid response on the ground 

HealthNet TPO teams were on the ground within minutes of the disaster. Local health workers kept clinics open throughout the night to treat survivors, while mobile medical teams were dispatched to reach remote villages cut off by landslides. 

“Many of our staff are themselves part of these communities — they were treating neighbours and relatives while the ground was still shaking,” said Dr. Naseem Naeem, Country Director of HealthNet TPO. “Their quick action saved lives, but the devastation is immense. We urgently need support to scale up our relief efforts.” 

Afghanistan earthquake response

HealthNet TPO manages dozens of health facilities in the affected provinces. In the first 24 hours, its clinics treated hundreds of injured people suffering from fractures, head injuries, and crush trauma caused by collapsing homes. Mobile health teams are now working to access remote villages that cannot be reached by road. At the same time, HealthNet TPO is working closely with local authorities to assess urgent needs and deliver essential relief supplies.

Key priorities: 
  • Emergency medical assistance for injured survivors 
  • Transportation to ensure patients can reach health centres 
  • Emergency health kits and trauma kits 
  • Temporary shelter and essential supplies for families who have lost their homes 
  • Psychosocial support for communities coping with loss and trauma 
How can you help 

The people of eastern Afghanistan urgently need medical care, shelter, and psychosocial support. With your help, we can reach those who need it most. 

With aftershocks continuing and entire districts cut off, we are racing against time to provide aid. HealthNet TPO has been active in Afghanistan for over thirty years, and we stand firmly with the people in this deep crisis.
— Dr. Naseem Naeem, HealthNet TPO Country Director in Afghanistan
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