Afghanistan toll in South Asia quake nearly doubles to 63

The death toll from a devastating earthquake that rocked South Asia on Monday nearly doubled to 63 in Afghanistan, after officials confirmed 30 fatalities in the eastern province of Kunar.

"The quake has caused a lot of devastation in this province. Initial information shows 30 people have been killed and more than 70 injured. Some 1,500 homes have also been destroyed," said Kunar Governor Wahidullah Kalimzai. 

Horrifying news emerged of at least 12 schoolgirls being trampled to death in a northern Afghan province. "The students rushed to escape the school building in Taluqan city (capital of Takhar), triggering a stampede," Takhar education department chief Enayat  Naweed  told AFP. "Twelve students, all minors, were killed and 35 others were injured."