On October 8, 2024, Pakistan commemorated the 19th anniversary of the devastating earthquake that struck the northern regions of the country in 2005, claiming more than 80,000 lives and leaving millions homeless. The earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.6, was one of the deadliest natural disasters in Pakistan’s history, affecting areas in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and northern Punjab.
Memorial services were held across the country to honor the victims and remember the survivors who continue to rebuild their lives nearly two decades later. In Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir and one of the worst-hit areas, officials, survivors, and families of the deceased gathered to offer prayers and reflect on the tragedy. Many still live with the scars of that day, with thousands displaced and entire communities destroyed.
The anniversary also served as a reminder of Pakistan’s ongoing vulnerability to earthquakes and other natural disasters. Despite significant advancements in disaster preparedness, including the establishment of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), many regions remain at risk due to the country’s seismic activity. Experts have called for greater investment in earthquake-resistant infrastructure and more robust disaster response mechanisms to prevent similar levels of devastation in the future.
In schools across the affected regions, students participated in earthquake drills to raise awareness about safety measures during such disasters. The government has reiterated its commitment to improving disaster resilience, particularly in vulnerable areas, though many communities still face challenges in rebuilding even 19 years after the quake
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