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PESHAWAR, Oct 08 (APP):On this solemn anniversary of the October 8, 2005, earthquake, we remember not only the immense loss of life but also the inspiring stories of resilience that emerged from the tragedy.
Among them is Aftab Ahmad, a survivor of the Balakot earthquake who today stands as the Founder and CEO of Assort Tech, one of Pakistan’s largest and most innovative technology companies.
The devastating earthquake struck northern Pakistan on the morning of October 8, 2005, at 8:50 a.m., with a magnitude of 7.6.
The disaster caused widespread destruction in Mansehra, Balakot, Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Rawalakot, leveling entire towns and villages within moments.
Landslides blocked roads and isolated thousands of survivors in remote areas.
More than 73,000 people lost their lives in Pakistan, while nearly 70,000 were injured and about three million were left homeless.
Balakot and Bagh were among the worst-hit regions, with homes, schools, hospitals, and marketplaces reduced to rubble.
In the aftermath, the Pakistan Army, humanitarian organizations, and volunteers from across the world launched extensive rescue and relief operations.
The global community responded swiftly, and pledges worth billions of dollars were made to help Pakistan rebuild.
Over the years, homes, schools, and hospitals were reconstructed, and programs for rehabilitation and psychological support were introduced to help survivors rebuild their lives.
One of those survivors, Aftab Ahmad, was a young boy from Balakot whose life was forever changed by the quake.
Having experienced loss and displacement, he carried forward a deep resolve to transform his struggle into strength.
His journey from a disaster-stricken child to a leading entrepreneur reflects extraordinary resilience and vision.
Through education, hard work, and an unwavering belief in the power of technology, he built Assort Tech, a company that today represents innovation, empowerment, and national pride.
Under Aftab Ahmad’s leadership, Assort Tech has emerged as one of Pakistan’s largest IT companies, employing hundreds of skilled professionals and driving digital transformation across multiple industries.
The company has introduced cutting-edge software solutions, digital platforms, and artificial intelligence products that have gained recognition both nationally and internationally.
One of its recent achievements is the development of Only Hajj.ai, an AI-powered application designed to assist pilgrims during Hajj a project that received nationwide praise for combining technology with compassion and service.
Aftab Ahmad’s remarkable story of perseverance has earned him national recognition.
In February 2025, he was honored with the Pride of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Award for his outstanding contributions to Pakistan’s IT sector and his inspiring journey from a Balakot earthquake survivor to a leading entrepreneur. The award acknowledged his work in creating jobs, promoting digital literacy, and uplifting youth from underdeveloped areas.
Reflecting on his journey, Aftab Ahmad said, “From the ruins of Balakot to the frontiers of technology, my path has been shaped by loss, hope, and the belief that adversity can become opportunity.
I lead Assort Tech with the same determination that carried us through the quake’s aftermath—always striving for excellence, always building toward a more inclusive digital future for Pakistan.”
Assort Tech continues to expand its presence across Pakistan, focusing on innovation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development. The company remains dedicated to providing opportunities to young people from remote areas, helping them gain access to training, technology, and employment.
On this anniversary of the 2005 earthquake, the story of Aftab Ahmad stands as a powerful reminder that even in the face of immense destruction, human will and resilience can rebuild lives and shape nations.
From the shattered streets of Balakot to the thriving corridors of technology industry, Aftab Ahmad’s journey embodies enduring spirit of Pakistan — a nation that rises, rebuilds, and leads with determination.