The devastation and traumatic memories of the catastrophic earthquake that struck Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on October 8, 2005, remain fresh even 21 years later.
The devastation and traumatic memories of the catastrophic earthquake that struck Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on October 8, 2005, remain fresh even 21 years later. In the devastating earthquake that lasted only a few moments, more than 87,000 people were killed, thousands were injured, and entire communities were wiped off the map.
At 8:52 a.m. on October 8, 2005, during the holy month of Ramadan, a powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck Muzaffarabad, Bagh, the Neelum Valley, Chakothi, and other areas. More than 10 tehsils in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, then known as the North-West Frontier Province, were devastated. The epicenter of the earthquake was located about 95 kilometers from Islamabad, between Attock and the Hazara Division.
The earthquake destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes. Muzaffarabad was among the worst-affected areas, where houses, schools, colleges, government offices, hotels, hospitals, markets, and commercial buildings collapsed into piles of rubble within moments. More than 50,000 people were killed and thousands injured in the area, while around 500,000 people were rendered homeless. The courage and resilience of the earthquake survivors were widely praised internationally, and following the enormous loss of life and property, Pakistan received financial assistance from countries around the world.
In his special message on Earthquake Martyrs’ Day, Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani said the October 8, 2005 earthquake was an unforgettable tragedy in the history of Azad Kashmir. He said the day serves as a reminder of the loss of loved ones who were separated from their families forever. He added that the international community had provided extensive support for the reconstruction of Azad Kashmir following the earthquake, for which Pakistan remained grateful to friendly countries and the global community. The reconstruction of the affected areas was made possible through international cooperation.
The Azad Kashmir prime minister said the Pakistan Army worked day and night to assist earthquake victims. He said October 8 became a historic example of national unity in Pakistan, and the sacrifices of the victims and martyrs would always be remembered. He stressed that the day should serve as a reminder to pledge to build a stronger Azad Kashmir. He prayed that Allah Almighty elevate the ranks of those who lost their lives in the earthquake and grant patience to their bereaved families.
President Asif Ali Zardari also paid tribute to the victims of the October 8, 2005 earthquake and thanked Saudi Arabia, the United States, China, Türkiye, Iran, Japan, and Cuba for their assistance during the disaster. In a post on X, the president said Pakistan faces complex challenges, including climate change and environmental degradation, and that the country must recognize its responsibility to protect future generations and take effective measures. He further said that the introduction of technology and artificial intelligence at the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is strengthening early warning systems. He stressed that future challenges can only be addressed by incorporating disaster risk reduction into development planning.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the martyrs and expressed solidarity with the earthquake survivors. In a statement, he said the determination and mutual support demonstrated by the Pakistani nation during the difficult period represented a shining chapter in the country’s history. Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that strengthening the country’s capacity to deal with the risks posed by climate change must be given central importance. He said advance preparedness and the use of technology are essential for protecting against natural disasters, adding that the government is working to make modern data systems and early warning mechanisms more effective.
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq also paid tribute to the victims of the October 8, 2005 earthquake. He said the determination, sacrifice, and solidarity demonstrated by the Pakistani nation after the devastating earthquake represented a remarkable chapter in the country’s history. He stressed that advance planning, preventive measures, and cooperation are essential to reducing the damage caused by natural disasters.
