President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commemorated the 19th anniversary of the 2005 earthquake on October 8, honoring the victims while emphasizing the need for climate-resilient infrastructure and improved disaster preparedness. During the observance of National Resilience Day, both leaders called for enhanced disaster management strategies and expressed gratitude for international support following the disaster. They highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, advocating for a collaborative approach among stakeholders to fortify national resilience.
On October 8, 2024, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commemorated the 19th anniversary of the catastrophic earthquake that struck northeast Pakistan in 2005, resulting in the tragic loss of thousands of lives. The remembrance events coincided with ‘National Resilience Day’, observed in various regions, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). President Zardari emphasized the urgent need for the development of climate-resilient infrastructure, as he urged the nation to prioritize disaster risk management education. He advocated for community engagement in disaster preparedness and highlighted the importance of equipping institutions with contemporary technology for effective emergency responses. The President expressed his gratitude for the international support received following the earthquake, acknowledging the extensive assistance that facilitated reconstruction efforts. He noted the pressing threats posed by climate change, calling for substantial investments in disaster management capabilities to shield the nation against future calamities. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the necessity for clear and effective communication of risks to communities, asserting that the day serves as a reminder of the need for robust policies aimed at enhancing national resilience. He outlined the government’s commitment to infrastructure safety, disaster preparedness, and sustainable practices. Sharif also reflected on the significant challenges posed by recent floods, attributing these disasters to climate change effects and acknowledging the response efforts by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). He encouraged collaboration among various sectors to strengthen national defenses against natural disasters, while thanking international partners for their contributions to relief efforts during national crises.
The commemorative events on October 8 mark the anniversary of the deadly 2005 earthquake in Pakistan, which registered a magnitude of 7.6, claiming over 87,000 lives primarily in the regions of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The observance of National Resilience Day serves to both honor the victims and to remind the country of the continuous threats posed by natural disasters, particularly in light of worsening climate conditions. This day highlights Pakistan’s ongoing struggles with disaster management and underscores the importance of building infrastructure that can withstand severe weather events and natural calamities.
In conclusion, the observance of National Resilience Day reflects the profound impact of the 2005 earthquake on Pakistan and emphasizes the critical need for enhanced disaster preparedness and climate resilience strategies. Both President Zardari and Prime Minister Sharif have called for a unified approach to disaster management, stressing the need for investment in infrastructure and community education. As climate change continues to pose significant threats, these messages highlight the importance of coordinated efforts and international support to safeguard the nation’s future against both natural disasters and climate-related challenges.
Original Source: www.geo.tv
