Truck Overturns in Eastern Afghanistan, Killing 18 Including 10 Children

At least 18 people, including 10 children, lost their lives and dozens of others were injured after a truck carrying returning Afghan families overturned in eastern Afghanistan, authorities said on Friday. The tragic accident occurred on a highway in Laghman province, along the route linking Jalalabad and Kabul, one of the country’s busiest transport corridors.

Provincial officials confirmed that the victims were among a group of Afghans returning from neighbouring Pakistan. The passengers were reportedly travelling with their belongings when the vehicle lost control and overturned. Preliminary reports indicate that the deceased included 10 children, five women and three men.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene shortly after the crash and launched rescue operations. At least 29 people sustained injuries, several of them serious, and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities said medical teams were mobilised to provide immediate assistance to the survivors.

The accident comes amid a growing movement of Afghan nationals returning from Pakistan following recent measures targeting undocumented migrants. Thousands of families have crossed back into Afghanistan in recent months, often travelling long distances under difficult conditions. Many returnees rely on overcrowded vehicles to transport family members and personal belongings, increasing the risks associated with road travel.

Road accidents remain a persistent challenge across Afghanistan, where decades of conflict have damaged infrastructure and hindered the development of safe transportation networks. Poor road conditions, vehicle overloading, inadequate maintenance and limited enforcement of traffic regulations are frequently cited as major causes of fatal crashes.

Officials have not yet released the final findings of the investigation into the incident, but local authorities are examining the circumstances that led to the vehicle overturning. Condolences have been extended to the families of those who died, while efforts continue to support the injured and their relatives. Observers say improved transport infrastructure and stricter safety measures will be essential to reducing the number of deadly accidents across the country in the future.