Today marks 19 years since the devastating earthquake of October 8, 2005, which shook the federal capital Islamabad, Kashmir, and several other regions of Pakistan.

For many, the morning of October 8, 2005, was no less than a scene of resurrection, as the powerful earthquake, measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale, unleashed unprecedented destruction.

In Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, which was among the hardest-hit areas, a memorial ceremony was held at University College Ground to honour those who lost their lives in the disaster.

Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq led the event, paying tribute to the victims. A minute of silence was observed following the sounding of a siren, while a police contingent paid a visit to the memorial for the victims. The prime minister laid flowers at the memorial and offered prayers for the departed souls.

Similar events took place across Azad Kashmir and Mirpur, where various gatherings were organized to commemorate the victims. In remembrance of the more than 74,000 lives lost, over 125,000 who were left disabled, and the 3.5 million displaced due to the earthquake, these events are a reminder of the immense human toll and the resilience of survivors.

A walk was organized from the Quaid-e-Azam Stadium, while prayers were offered for the earthquake victims at Fajr prayer this morning.

The 2005 earthquake remains one of Pakistan’s deadliest natural disasters. Even 19 years later, the memories of that fateful day continue to evoke a deep sense of loss and reflection. The physical scars may have healed in some places, but the emotional wounds are still fresh for many families who lost loved ones in the blink of an eye.