The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that Taliban-imposed restrictions on female doctors are severely disrupting medical care for victims of the recent earthquake in Kunar province.
In a report released on Sunday, September 7, WHO stated that these restrictions have not only hindered healthcare delivery but have also significantly affected children’s access to essential medical services.
According to WHO, six mobile health teams have been deployed to Nurgal district and other affected areas in Kunar to assist those in need. The organization estimates that approximately 84,000 people have been impacted by the disaster.
WHO also highlighted that reaching remote and mountainous areas in Kunar remains a major challenge. To address the urgent needs of earthquake victims, the organization has appealed for $4 million in immediate funding.
Rescue operations are still ongoing a week after the earthquake. The Taliban have confirmed the deaths of over 2,200 people.
Earlier, sources had confirmed to Etilaatroz that there is an acute shortage of female doctors in healthcare facilities in both Kunar and Nangarhar— a shortage exacerbated by the Taliban’s restrictive policies.
