1. Afghanistan
Why in the news?
- A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan (Kunar & Nangarhar) on September 1, killing over 800 and injuring around 2,800.
- Rescue operations are hampered by mountainous terrain, heavy rain, and collapsed roads, with remote areas still inaccessible.
- The disaster worsens Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis, as aid cuts and Taliban policies limit disaster response.
About Afghanistan
- Political Features
- Afghanistan is a landlocked, mountainous country located in South Asia. It is often called the “Gateway to Asia.”
- The country shares its borders with Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan to the north, Iran to the west, Pakistan to the southeast, and India and China to the northeast.
- Geographical Features
- Major rivers: Amu Darya, Helmand, and Kabul rivers.
- Highest point: Mount Nowshak.
- Mountain ranges: Hindu Kush, Pamir Mountains in the northeast, and Safed Koh range in the south.
- Climate: Continental, with hot summers and cold winters.
