Post by : Rameen Ariff

Kabul, Afghanistan: In the early hours of Friday, a mild earthquake measuring 3.7 in magnitude struck Afghanistan, confirmed by the National Center for Seismology (NCS). Occurring at 06:09 AM IST at a depth of 80 kilometres, it was recorded at coordinates 36.38°N and 71.14°E. While the quake was minor, it adds to a series of tremors that have recently affected the region.

The NCS indicated that the earthquake's depth significantly reduces the chances of severe damage or casualties. “EQ of M: 3.7, On: 24/10/2025 06:09:41 IST, Depth: 80 Km, Location: Afghanistan,” the NCS shared via X, verifying the specifics of the tremor.

This incident follows a pattern of seismic activity in Afghanistan, with a 4.3-magnitude quake reported on Tuesday and a 5.5-magnitude tremor shaking northern regions on October 17, signaling the fourth significant quake within a month. The latter quake was located 47 km north-northwest of Khandud at a depth of 43 km, as per the US Geological Survey (USGS).

Experts point out that while Friday's deeper quake poses a reduced threat to surface structures, shallow earthquakes can result in greater devastation due to the closer distance to the surface, leading to more intense ground shaking and potential for damage and casualties.

Afghanistan is situated within a highly active seismic zone, formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This geographical area, which includes Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northern India, frequently experiences moderate to significant earthquakes that are often felt across borders. The relentless pressure from these considerable tectonic plates makes earthquakes a continuous natural hazard in Afghanistan.

At the same time, Afghanistan faces numerous humanitarian challenges. These recurring earthquakes amplify the vulnerabilities of local populations living in inadequately built structures and remote locations with limited access to emergency services.

In response to these challenges, India has reaffirmed its dedication to peace and humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan. During a UN Security Council briefing on Afghanistan on September 18, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, emphasized India’s focus on stability and capacity-building initiatives in this earthquake-prone country. “Our immediate priorities include providing humanitarian assistance and supporting capacity-building efforts for the Afghan people,” he remarked, expressing solidarity through the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

As Afghanistan endures these ongoing seismic activities, experts stress the critical need for disaster preparedness, resilient infrastructure, and cross-border collaboration. Given the region’s seismic instability, these initiatives are vital for safeguarding communities against future quakes.

Though there have been no immediate reports of damage from Friday’s 3.7-magnitude quake, it starkly highlights the fragile geological conditions in Afghanistan and the enduring strength of its people, who continue to face both natural disasters and humanitarian issues with resilience and determination.

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