Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK) is preparing to observe the 18th anniversary of one of history’s most devastating earthquakes, which struck on October 8, 2005, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The solemn occasion is marked as National Disaster Awareness Day, with ceremonies, prayers, and awareness events to honor the memory of the earthquake victims and emphasize the importance of disaster preparedness.
On Sunday, October 8, people across AJK will gather with a sense of solemnity, respect, and determination to remember the tragic events of that fateful day in 2005. This day is observed as a day of remembrance and reflection, with rich tributes paid to the martyrs and other victims of the earthquake, which was the deadliest in the region’s history.
A significant ceremony to commemorate this tragic day will be hosted by the Kashmir Orphan Relief Trust (KORT) and Educational Complex Mirpur AJK in Swabi, located in the neighboring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The KORT houses hundreds of orphaned and shelterless children who were severely affected by the earthquake in 2005. This ceremony serves as a symbol of resilience and hope as it pays tribute to the victims and survivors of the disaster.
The ceremony in Swabi will commence at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday and will be attended by dignitaries, social workers, volunteers, and representatives from various nation-building institutions. Together, they will observe the anniversary with respect and offer prayers for the victims.
Mirpur city in AJK, which experienced a devastating earthquake on September 24, 2019, will also participate in the anniversary observations. This earthquake resulted in casualties, injuries, and significant damage to buildings in Mirpur and neighboring areas. The city’s residents will join the nation in remembering the victims of both earthquakes and highlighting the importance of disaster preparedness.
The day will begin with special prayers in mosques at dawn (Fajr) across AJK to remember the departed souls of the earthquake victims. It will be a gazetted holiday throughout AJK State.
The main ceremony in the capital city of Muzaffarabad will be attended by government officials, local authorities, and representatives from national and international NGOs. Special functions and walks for awareness, seminars, and symposiums will be held in various parts of AJK to pay tribute to the victims and raise awareness about disaster preparedness.
The devastating earthquake in 2005 left over 75,000 people dead and caused extensive damage to infrastructure in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and AJK. The anniversary serves as a reminder of the resilience of the people of AJK and their commitment to disaster resilience and preparedness.
As the nation gathers to remember the victims, there is a collective determination to continue working towards a safer and more resilient future, ensuring that the lessons learned from past disasters are never forgotten.
