National Resilience Day: President, PM vow to boost disaster risk reduction capacity

Islamabad (Web Desk): The nation is marking National Resilience Day today (Wednesday) to show solidarity with those who suffered in the catastrophic earthquake of 2005.

The deadly tremor, which struck on October 8, 2005, took thousands of lives and inflicted widespread destruction, particularly in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where homes, schools, and vital infrastructure were reduced to rubble.

Across Pakistan, including in AJK, ceremonies and remembrance events are being held to honor the victims and express compassion for the families affected by the tragedy.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in their separate messages, reaffirmed the government’s resolve to strengthen the country’s resilience against disasters and safeguard vulnerable populations.

They also saluted the courage and unity of the Pakistani people, who rose from the devastation of the 2005 earthquake with remarkable determination and collective strength.
President Asif Ali Zardari called for a united and whole-of-society approach to strengthen disaster preparedness and climate resilience across Pakistan.

He said October 8 reminds the nation of the devastating earthquake that claimed over 80,000 lives, injured many, and left millions homeless, while also paying tribute to those who stood together in solidarity during that tragedy.

The president said the twentieth anniversary of the 2005 earthquake symbolizes the unbreakable spirit of the Pakistani people who rebuilt schools, hospitals, and homes from the ruins, showing that true strength lies in overcoming adversity with faith, unity, and innovation.

He noted that this year’s monsoon floods, which displaced a large population and caused major losses to agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods, serve as a reminder of the escalating threats of climate change.

President Zardari emphasized that despite Pakistan’s negligible contribution to global carbon emissions, the country continues to face a disproportionate impact of climate change.

He mentioned that Pakistan’s disaster management system has made significant progress, with the National Disaster Management Authority establishing a state-of-the-art National Emergencies Operation Centre that utilizes advanced technology for early warning and risk assessment.

Highlighting the need for stronger preparedness, sustainable development, and inclusive participation, the president urged all federal and provincial institutions, civil society, academia, and the private sector to work together to reduce the impact of disasters and protect vulnerable communities.

President Zardari concluded by praying for guidance in building a safer, stronger, and more resilient Pakistan.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged national unity, proactive preparedness, and climate resilience as Pakistan marks the 20th anniversary of the 2005 earthquake on National Resilience Day.

In a message commemorating the tragedy, he recalled the immense human and infrastructural losses and praised the nation’s courage and solidarity in overcoming the catastrophe. Shehbaz said the 2005 earthquake remains a lasting reminder of Pakistan’s strength and compassion.

He noted that the country continues to face climate-induced disasters, including this year’s severe monsoon floods that displaced millions, adding that the government stands firmly with the people in such crises.

The prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s progress in disaster management, citing improved early warning systems and the role of the National Emergencies Operation Centre under the NDMA.

Calling for cooperation among provincial governments, armed forces, civil society, and humanitarian organizations, he said Pakistan’s collective resolve has always matched the challenges ahead.

Stressing the need for data-driven and community-led approaches to counter evolving climate threats, he pointed to floods, droughts, heatwaves, and glacial melts as urgent risks demanding comprehensive preparedness.

The premier urged citizens to participate in local disaster prevention efforts and adopt sustainable practices.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment to disaster risk reduction, PM Shehbaz vowed that with unity and purpose, Pakistan will continue building a safer and more resilient future.