ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari delivered a heartfelt message on the occasion of National Resilience Day, observed on October 8, to mark twenty years since the devastating 2005 earthquake.
The tragedy claimed over 80,000 lives, injured hundreds of thousands, and displaced millions of people across Pakistan.
President Zardari stated that every year on this day, the nation remembers the catastrophic earthquake that shook the country but also celebrates the unbreakable spirit and unity of the Pakistani people. This year represents the twentieth anniversary of that disaster, serving as a monumental testament to the indomitable resilience of the nation.
In the face of unimaginable tragedy, people across the country stood together with courage and solidarity. Neighbors extended their hands in support, strangers became like family, and the nation emerged stronger, more united, and more determined to build a brighter future.
He emphasized that from the ashes of destruction, schools, hospitals, and homes were rebuilt through collective effort. The experience demonstrated that true strength does not lie in avoiding challenges, but in overcoming them with faith, unity, and innovation.
The President also drew attention to the devastating monsoon floods of the current year, which displaced a large number of people and inflicted extensive damage on agriculture, infrastructure, services, and livelihoods.
These repeated disasters, he said, are a stark reminder of the growing threat posed by climate change. Although Pakistan contributes minimally to global carbon emissions, it bears a disproportionate share of the consequences, similar to other small developing economies.
He commended the significant progress achieved in Pakistan’s disaster management framework over recent years. The establishment of the National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) by the National Disaster Management Authority has introduced cutting-edge technology for early warning and risk assessment, making the national disaster response strategy more integrated and effective.
However, the recurrence of natural calamities underscores the urgent need to further strengthen preparedness, promote sustainable development, and involve all segments of society in this vital process.
On this National Resilience Day, the President urged federal and provincial institutions, stakeholders, civil society, educational institutions, and the private sector to work together to minimize the impact of disasters, enhance collective readiness, and ensure the protection of vulnerable communities.
He expressed his hope that the nation would continue to build a safer, stronger, and more resilient Pakistan with the guidance and blessings of Allah.
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