National disaster preparedness, response capacity need further strengthening: Ayaz

ISLAMABAD, Oct 07 (APP): Speaker of National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Wednesday said the devastating earthquake of October 8, 2005, remained a painful memory for the entire nation, with the loss of precious lives and widespread destruction in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other affected areas constituting an unforgettable national tragedy.

In a message on the 21st anniversary of the earthquake, the Speaker expressed solidarity with the families affected by the tragedy and shared their grief over the loss of their loved ones and the hardships they endured.

He said the unity, compassion and collective sense of responsibility demonstrated by the Pakistani nation in the aftermath of the disaster represented a proud chapter in the country’s history.

Ayaz Sadiq said people from across the country, relief organizations, volunteers, the armed forces and civil society actively participated in rescue and relief operations.

He particularly appreciated the role of the Pakistan Army, saying its personnel played a vital part in rescue and relief efforts and provided all possible assistance to people in the affected areas.

The Speaker said the collective efforts and unwavering commitment demonstrated during the reconstruction and rehabilitation process played a significant role in restoring normal life in the affected areas.

He said the experience of the 2005 earthquake highlighted the need for enhanced preparedness for natural disasters and effective coordination among relevant institutions.

Ayaz Sadiq stressed that early warning systems, local-level emergency response mechanisms, rescue and relief capabilities and public awareness needed to be further strengthened to minimize loss of life and property caused by natural disasters.

He prayed to Allah Almighty to grant mercy and eternal peace to all those who lost their lives in the October 8 tragedy and give strength and patience to their bereaved families.

Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah said the October 8, 2005, tragedy served as a reminder of the importance of human compassion, mutual cooperation and national unity.

He said effective coordination and collective efforts among the government, relevant institutions, experts and the public were essential to reducing the impact of natural disasters.

The Deputy Speaker prayed that Allah Almighty grant forgiveness to those who lost their lives in the earthquake, give patience and strength to their bereaved families, and protect Pakistan from all kinds of natural disasters.