After the 2005 earthquake calamity, AJK is still having difficulty rebuilding twenty years later.

The deadly October 8, 2005 earthquake in Azad Jammu and Kashmir occurred twenty years ago, however despite this time, there has been no improvement in urban planning and construction standards.

Twenty years ago, on this day at 8:52 a.m., the capital city of Muzaffarabad was among the districts that felt the shaking of the earth. More than 46,000 people were killed in the 7.6 magnitude earthquake, which quickly reduced entire villages to rubble.

Balakot, a picturesque town along the Kunhar River in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was totally devastated.

The majority of the fatalities were brought on by subpar construction. Even after 20 years, attempts to make the construction system safer have not been completed, and government buildings, schools, and institutions have collapsed. Basic amenities including shelter, healthcare, and education are still inaccessible to many survivors.

In Muzaffarabad and other parts of Azad Kashmir, poor construction is still prevalent even after 20 years.

Along seasonal water courses, people have even constructed permanent homes. In Thotha and Langarpura, relocation projects for earthquake victims were planned, but only a small number of homes have been finished.

In addition to being a tragic event in Pakistani history, the October 8, 2005 earthquake serves as a reminder of the value of preparation, planning, and teamwork in the face of natural disasters.

Honoring earthquake martyrs through memorial ceremonies

Azad Jammu and Kashmir is observing the anniversary of the earthquake martyrs with reverence in the meantime. The AJK Chief Secretary, government ministers, and other officials are present for the major event, which is now taking place at the University Ground in Muzaffarabad.

A moment of silence was observed and sirens were sounded at precisely 8:52 a.m. At the Martyrs’ Monument, police and Rescue 1122 contingents saluted, while government ministers and the chief secretary deposited flower wreaths.

To commemorate the earthquake victims, a memorial walk and prayer ritual were planned in Mirpur. A significant number of students, Commissioner Mirpur, members of social and political organizations, and children who were orphaned by the 2005 tragedy all took part in the walk.

According to Commissioner Mirpur Mukhtar Hussain, October 8, 2005, continues to be a tragic day in Azad Kashmir’s history, affecting thousands of families.