Kunar Earthquake Survivors Face Deep Psychological Trauma

The continuous aftershocks have disrupted and made daily life difficult for residents of Deh-e-Gul valley in the Suki district.

Naqibullah, a Kunar earthquake survivor, said: “My father and mother were killed. When the earthquake struck, our house collapsed on us, and now my mind no longer works.”

Ajab Gul, another survivor, said: “Even now, there are tremors. Every time I recall that scene, I feel like it was only a dream. This has caused me serious psychological distress, and my mental state is very poor.”

Akhtar Mohammad, a resident of Suki district in Kunar, lost 17 members of his family in the deadly earthquake last Sunday evening, while he and his two brothers were injured.

He says that the memories of his lost loved ones return to him constantly, leaving him deeply traumatized.

Akhtar Mohammad, a Kunar earthquake survivor, said: “In this earthquake, we had two wounded and 17 martyrs, my brothers and sisters. Now, when I walk and move, I feel as if I am dreaming. I am suffering from psychological problems.”

Local officials say that rescue operations in Deh-e-Gul valley of Suki district have concluded, while aid distribution continues through special committees.

Ziaulhaq Hamid, Kunar’s police chief and head of the Deh-e-Gul rescue committee, said: “Rescue operations in Deh-e-Gul, Suki district of Kunar, have been completed. The wounded were transferred properly, all the martyrs have been buried, and since the third morning after the quake, the aid delivery process has continued. For this, we have set up a central committee in Deh-e-Gul, along with four additional committees.”

Local authorities added that residents of affected areas have been relocated to temporary camps to prevent potential threats and ensure security.