The UN Development Programme (UNDP) is calling for $25 million to support the recovery efforts and rebuild resilient communities.

The earthquakes, which measured 6.3 in magnitude, killed over 1,500 people, injured 11,000, and damaged over 21,000 homes and infrastructure. The survivors, mostly women and children, are living in tents, facing the harsh winter, and in need of basic services and assistance.

UNDP has already allocated $3.15 million from its own resources for immediate relief and recovery, but this is not enough to meet the huge demand. The agency is part of a larger Herat Earthquake Response Plan developed by the UN Humanitarian Country Team, which needs $93.6 million to assist 114,000 people who are most in need during the winter.

Stephen Rodriques, UNDP Resident Representative in Afghanistan, said: "The situation on the ground is desperate and winter is fast approaching. Our goal is to help these communities restore basic infrastructure, especially shelter, and return to normalcy as quickly as possible. We've repurposed some of our existing resources so we can start moving quickly, but these resources are just not enough".

UNDP's appeal for an additional $25 million will support a comprehensive recovery plan that aims to provide transitional and permanent shelter, rebuild basic infrastructure, provide renewable energy, restore and manage water systems and resources, and create temporary and longer-term jobs and livelihood opportunities. The overarching goal is to not only rebuild but also create resilient communities by empowering women and creating jobs for those who have lost their sources of income due to the disaster.

With winter approaching, the situation is critical and requires urgent action. UNDP urges donors and partners to support its appeal and help the earthquake survivors in Afghanistan. (ILKHA)