Would people still be interested in religion if it didn't promise an afterlife?

simple answer is yes.

i believe that religion serves a purpose for those who want a belief.
i think it is important for people to have something to believe in as it fulfils the basic question of what is the meaning of life?
i think it is too hard a concept to accept that there is no certain answer to such a question without the existence of a God.

let's face it , the human race and the individual are of no consequence.

i have always envied people's belief in God because it provides them with such comfort throughout their lives

In my opinion, no.