UN Warns of Possible Landmine Movement Amid Heavy Rain and Flash Floods in Afghanistan
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported that heavy rains and flash floods in several Afghan provinces have claimed lives and caused extensive damage. The agency has warned of the potential displacement of landmines and unexploded ordnance left over from years of conflict, a situation that could increase the risk of explosions and casualties for residents of affected areas and aid workers.
According to a report released on Wednesday, July 29, the provinces of Ghazni, Kapisa, Laghman, Logar, Nangarhar, Paktia, Paktika, and Parwan are among the most severely impacted areas. Nuristan has been identified as one of the hardest-hit provinces.
OCHA stated that in Parun, the capital of Nuristan province, 120 families eligible for humanitarian assistance have been identified, with aid distributed to 92 families so far.
In Laghman province, floods have resulted in three deaths and injured four others. Additionally, 187 families have been affected there.
OCHA added that a total of 183 homes have been either completely or partially destroyed or damaged. Furthermore, around 800 acres of agricultural land and nearly 310 livestock have been lost or damaged—losses that could severely impact the livelihoods of rural families.
