KABUL: The interim Minister of Public Health, Qalandar Ibad, has stated that a swift and comprehensive response is underway to assist the victims of the recent devastating earthquake in Herat. The ministry has mobilized almost 60 health teams, including female medical professionals, to provide aid in the affected regions.
Ibad has called upon humanitarian organizations to collaborate in the establishment of shelters for the earthquake survivors, ensuring their preparedness for the approaching winter season. He emphasized that each medical team is equipped with ambulances and staffed with nurses and midwives, focusing on delivering essential services to women.
In addition to immediate medical assistance, the acting Minister of Public Health highlighted the formation of a dedicated commission by the Islamic Emirate Prime Minister. This commission is tasked with assessing the extent of damages and identifying the needs of those affected by the earthquakes in Herat province.
These individuals will initially reside in tents for a month. However, prolonged tent living could pose challenges. Therefore, our collective efforts, in collaboration with the established commission, are directed towards finding sustainable shelter solutions, including house construction, stated Qalandar Ibad.
He emphasized the crucial need for cooperation in the nutrition sector, particularly to ensure the well-being of affected populations, mothers, and children. Additionally, clean water is a vital requirement to prevent infectious diseases and safeguard the community from health risks.
Despite five days passing since the initial earthquake in Herat, another powerful earthquake struck parts of western Afghanistan on Wednesday morning, exacerbating the existing crisis caused by the earlier quake, which claimed over 2,000 lives and devastated entire villages.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Health reaffirmed its unwavering commitment and readiness to provide essential medical services to the residents of Herat during this challenging period. The ministry is dedicated to assisting the affected communities and facilitating a comprehensive recovery process.
