Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the resilience of the Pakistani people on the twentieth anniversary of the 2005 earthquake, which claimed over 80,000 lives and left millions homeless. In his message on National Resilience Day, he paid tribute to the solidarity shown during natural and induced disasters in the country’s history.
The earthquake, which struck on October 8, 2005, served as a pivotal moment for Pakistan, highlighting both the nation’s vulnerabilities and its capacity for unity and recovery. President Zardari noted that from the ruins, Pakistan rebuilt critical infrastructure such as schools and hospitals, demonstrating that strength is found in overcoming adversity through faith and innovation.
This year, Pakistan has faced another challenge with monsoon floods displacing a sizable population and causing significant damage to agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods. The president pointed out that despite Pakistan’s minimal contribution to global carbon emissions, it is disproportionately affected by climate change, similar to other small developing economies.
Over the years, Pakistan’s disaster management framework has evolved significantly. The National Disasters Management Authority has developed the National Emergencies Operation Centre, leveraging advanced technology for early warning systems. This has been part of a broader effort to create a more coordinated and effective national response to disasters.
President Zardari called for collaboration among federal and provincial institutions, civil society, academia, and the private sector to enhance preparedness and support those in need. He stressed the importance of sustainable development and societal engagement to mitigate the impact of future calamities.
He concluded his message with a call for divine guidance in building a safer and more resilient Pakistan.