National Resilience Day is being observed across Pakistan today to honour the memory of those who lost their lives in the catastrophic 2005 earthquake and to stand in solidarity with the survivors who continue to inspire hope and strength.

Commemorative ceremonies are taking place nationwide — particularly in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — to pay heartfelt tribute to the victims and to reaffirm Pakistan’s enduring commitment to disaster preparedness and humanitarian resilience.

The 7.6-magnitude earthquake, which struck at 8:52 am on October 8, 2005, left a trail of unimaginable destruction, flattening large parts of Muzaffarabad and Balakot, claiming over 80,000 lives, and injuring thousands more.

It remains one of the darkest and most defining moments in Pakistan’s history — a tragedy that united the nation in compassion, courage, and collective recovery.

In Azad Kashmir, the day began with special prayers for the earthquake martyrs and for the freedom of Indian-occupied Kashmir.

Fateha and Quran Khawani gatherings were held across quake-affected districts to remember the departed and honour their legacy of perseverance.

In their messages, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif saluted the resilience and unity of the Pakistani people.

President Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s progress in strengthening its disaster management systems, including the establishment of a National Emergencies Operation Center equipped with cutting-edge technology for early warning and risk reduction.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s unwavering resolve to enhance disaster risk reduction mechanisms and ensure the protection and empowerment of vulnerable communities, underscoring that the spirit of 2005 continues to define Pakistan’s humanitarian strength.