KABUL, Afghanistan — Four districts in Baghlan province damaged by recent floods are inaccessible by road, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
OCHA reported that 3,128 homes have been destroyed or damaged. “In Badakhshan and Takhar provinces, joint assessment teams (JATs) have yet to reach two affected districts due to their remote location, damaged roads and bridges, and mudslides,” the report stated.
As areas become accessible, casualties are expected to rise, the report highlighted. “Emergency shelter, food assistance, and access to clean water are among the priority needs,” it said.
Flood-affected people in Baghlan have complained about the lack of humanitarian assistance. The province was hit by fatal floods over the past week, leaving more than 300 people dead and many others injured.
Sahib Gul, a flood survivor, is mourning the loss of her loved ones. “I was in the city when the flood came. I didn’t know, so I quickly returned home. Then I passed out and don’t remember anything,” she said.
The report emphasized the urgent need for technical support to assess and repair water wells to ensure the provision of safe drinking water, the clearance of dead livestock to reduce the spread of disease, and medical supplies.
Residents of Baghlan are suffering from a lack of access to basic needs and mourning the loss of their loved ones. Victims are being helped through aerial assistance.
“I have lost my parents and my brother. I had never seen such a horrifying incident before. Only God knows what we are feeling,” said Habibullah Khan, a Baghlan resident.
The UN’s OCHA stated that the number of casualties is expected to rise in Baghlan province. “Twelve members of my family were rescued safely from the flood, but six others lost their lives. Myself, along with my three children and several other family members, were in the car,” said Mohammad Alam, another Baghlan resident.
Relatives of the victims in Baghlan expressed frustration over the shortage of assistance over the past five days, emphasizing that in many cases, rescue operations have been led by local people.
