KARACHI: A solemn prayer ceremony was held at the mass graves within the premises of Mansehra High School, Balakot, to mark the 20th anniversary of the devastating October 8, 2005, earthquake – one of the deadliest natural disasters in Pakistan’s history.
Teachers, students, traders, and district officials attended the ceremony, offering prayers for thousands who lost their lives and for the peace and prosperity of the country. Floral wreaths were laid at the graves in remembrance of the victims.
The 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck northern Pakistan on the morning of October 8, 2005, with its epicenter near Muzaffarabad. It claimed over 73,000 lives, injured nearly 70,000 people, and left around three million homeless. Balakot, Bagh, and Muzaffarabad were among the worst-hit areas, with entire towns reduced to rubble.
Speakers at the ceremony paid tribute to the victims and rescuers, emphasizing the need to strengthen disaster preparedness and ensure earthquake-resistant construction in vulnerable regions. Prayers were also offered for national unity, peace, and resilience.
