MUZAFFARABAD (Staff Report) – Ten years ago on this day, a massive earthquake rocked northern Pakistan at 8:52 am and caused more than 80,000 deaths in upper Hazara, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of country including Islamabad.
The quake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale left tens of thousands injured and homeless. Balakot and Garhi Habibullah towns and surrounding villages in Mansehra district were razed to the ground.
The anniversary of deadly earthquake, will be observed today across AJK to offer prayers for the souls of deceased.
The day will dawn with special prayers at mosques across AJK for the departed souls. Fateha Khawani will be organized and sirens will be blown at 0852 hours. One minute silence will also be observed.
The Prime Minister of AJK Chaudhary Abdul Majeed will be the chief guest at the main function to be held at memorial of martyrs of quake at Muzaffarabad.
Media advisor to PM AJK, Shukat Javaid told that the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone of memorial building of the quake at Noluchi Bridge in the middle of the city.
The President and Prime Minister of AJK in their separate messages on the occasion, said the whole nation stood behind the Kashmiri people to overcome the deadly moment and losses.
President Sardar Yaqoob Khan in his message said a generation was swept away by this deadly catastrophe besides demolishing every thing but the nation rose back with a strong will to build back and keep life on.
“We will never forget this deadly moment and over loved ones who lost their lives and pay rich tribute to them but will continue our efforts to rise back soon despite the hurdles and financial crunches”, Sardar Yaqoob added.
Prime Minister Chaudhary Abdul Majeed said the Kashmiri people will never forget the un-exemplary cooperation of the people of Pakistan for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of devastated region besides sharing grief and sorrows of the effected people.
He said the quake was a tragedy which people met with courage and enthusiasm and a great spirit of union and cooperation was shown which will be an example to be remembered in the future.
