The death toll from recent flooding in Nuristan has risen to 23, with 80 others injured. The Taliban’s disaster management authority says search and rescue operations are continuing for nearly 100 people still missing.
According to a report by Zharfa News Agency, Taj Mohammad Hemat, deputy spokesman for the authority, said Tuesday, July 21, that 15 bodies have so far been pulled from the rubble. He added that rescue efforts are continuing despite difficult conditions in the region.
Based on Taliban figures, the floods completely destroyed seven houses and partially damaged 23 others. In addition, 70 shops, 40 light and heavy vehicles, and 11 hotels were also damaged, either fully or partially.
The disaster is being described as one of the deadliest floods to hit Nuristan in recent years — a province that faces the threat of destructive flooding every year during the rainy season.
Meanwhile, the Taliban held an emergency meeting attended by domestic institutions, international organizations, and United Nations representatives, where officials stressed the need for immediate assistance to those affected.
The disaster management authority has called on all partner organizations to deliver essential aid to flood-affected families in Nuristan within a maximum of 72 hours. Relief agencies also discussed coordination efforts to respond to the urgent needs of flood victims.
