M. Jamil Ahmed Shahid Samahnvi
October 8 remains one of the darkest and most painful days in the history of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It was a day when the earth suddenly trembled with such devastating force that, within moments, homes collapsed, communities were destroyed, families were separated, children became orphans, mothers lost their beloved children, and thousands of people lost their lives and returned to their Creator.
The devastating earthquake of October 8, 2005, was not merely a natural disaster; it was a profound test for humanity. In Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Rawalakot and many other affected areas, scenes of unimaginable destruction unfolded. Buildings were reduced to rubble, roads were damaged, communication systems were disrupted, and cries of grief and desperation could be heard everywhere.
People who had left their homes that morning expecting an ordinary day never returned. Families that had gathered together for breakfast were torn apart within seconds. Among the most heartbreaking victims were innocent children who went to school that morning but never returned to their parents. Many parents lost their children, while countless children were suddenly deprived of the love and protection of their parents.
The tragedy reminded humanity of its vulnerability. Despite all our scientific progress, technological achievements, wealth and material strength, human beings remain powerless before the forces of nature. A powerful earthquake can reduce impressive buildings to ruins within seconds. Such disasters teach us humility, compassion, unity and the importance of standing together in times of crisis.
The response to the earthquake also revealed the best side of humanity. The Pakistan Army, rescue organizations, police, doctors, nurses, social workers, volunteers and ordinary citizens worked tirelessly to save lives and provide relief. Rescue teams from different parts of the world also arrived to assist the affected communities.
The Pakistani nation demonstrated remarkable solidarity. People donated whatever they could—food, clothing, medicine, tents and blood. Many opened their homes to displaced families. In that hour of tragedy, the walls of language, region, caste and social status became meaningless. Humanity became the only identity that mattered.
However, twenty-one years after that devastating day, we must not limit our remembrance to ceremonies, condolences and prayers. October 8 should also compel us to ask whether we have truly learned all the lessons that this tragedy taught us.
Natural disasters cannot always be prevented, but their devastating impact can certainly be reduced. Earthquake-resistant construction, strict enforcement of building safety standards, regular inspection of schools and hospitals, stronger rescue services, public awareness and emergency preparedness are essential.
We must prepare for disasters before they happen rather than waiting for tragedy to strike. Schools should teach children basic emergency and earthquake-safety procedures. Hospitals, government offices and public buildings should have proper emergency plans. Rescue centers, fire brigades and medical facilities at the local level must be strengthened so that precious lives can be saved during the critical first hours of a disaster.
October 8 also reminds us of the responsibility of those who govern. Power is not merely authority; it is a trust. Those entrusted with public office must place the welfare of ordinary citizens among their highest priorities. Justice, honesty, merit and accountability are the foundations upon which strong societies and stable nations are built.
On this day, our prayers include every mother who lost a child, every child who lost a parent, every family whose home was destroyed, and every person who lost a loved one in that terrible tragedy.
We must remember that suffering does not belong to one family, one community or one region. Whenever a human being faces hardship, it is the responsibility of humanity to stand beside them. This is the true measure of a civilized and compassionate society.
On October 8, we pay tribute to all those who lost their lives in the devastating earthquake. We remember their families with respect and sympathy, and we salute all those who risked their own lives to rescue others and provide relief.
Let us pledge that October 8 will not remain merely a date on the calendar. Let it become a permanent reminder of unity, compassion, preparedness and responsibility. Let us work together to build safer communities and ensure that future generations are better prepared to face natural disasters.
O Allah, forgive all those who lost their lives in the October 8 tragedy and grant them the highest ranks in Your mercy. Give patience and strength to their families. Ease the difficulties of those who continue to suffer from the consequences of the disaster.
Protect our land and our people from every natural and human-made calamity. Bless our nation with unity, peace, compassion and brotherhood. Grant our rulers the wisdom, justice, honesty and courage to serve the people with sincerity and fairness.
Ameen, Ya Rabb-ul-Alameen…
