Kabul, Afghanistan – September 21, 2025 – In the wake of a devastating 6.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Afghanistan’s eastern region on August 31, 2025, the Danish Committee for Aid to Afghan Refugees (DACAAR) is mounting a comprehensive emergency response to support affected communities in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces.

The earthquake, which struck late in the evening, has resulted in catastrophic damage. The reports indicated at least 2,200 fatalities and more than 3,000 injuries. Critical access roads have been severed by landslides, hampered rescue efforts, and buried entire villages under rubble. The scale of the disaster has triggered an urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

"In the face of this tragedy, our teams are on the ground working tirelessly to deliver life-saving aid to the most vulnerable," DACAAR’s Regional team added. "The challenges are significant, with remote communities cut off from help. Our immediate priority is to provide clean water and essential hygiene items to prevent a secondary health crisis."

DACAAR’s response includes:

• Emergency Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) through the EU’s fund: Since September 8, DACAAR has been providing safe drinking water via water trucking to 3,500 families (approximately 24,500 individuals) in the Ziari Baba Camp daily. To ensure proper sanitation, DACAAR has installed 60 emergency latrines and baths and distributed over 1,400 hygiene kits. Targeted hygiene promotion sessions are also being conducted for female beneficiaries.
• Shelter and Winterization handed over by EU: Recognizing the imminent threat of the approaching winter, DACAAR is preparing to distribute emergency tents and winterization kits to 125 of the most vulnerable households in the remote areas of Norgal district. This vital support, provided by the EU (European Union), will offer protection from the elements for displaced families.

• Livelihoods Support: As part of its longer-term recovery strategy, DACAAR remains committed to its ongoing Community Resilience Livelihood Project (CRLP) in the Chowkay district. The program, funded by the World Bank via UNOPS, provides social grants and cash-for-work services to bolster the livelihoods and well-being of over 7,000 Households, helping communities rebuild.

DACAAR’s efforts are focused on reaching the hardest-hit and most inaccessible areas where needs are greatest. We continue to coordinate closely with other aid agencies and local authorities to ensure an efficient and effective response.