Islamabad: In a solemn remembrance of the tragic 2005 earthquake, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif addressed the nation on the eve of National Resilience Day, emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness and praising the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for its efforts in disaster management. The Prime Minister highlighted the challenges posed by climate change and the crucial role of advanced technology and national solidarity in enhancing Pakistan’s resilience against natural calamities.
According to Press Information Department, Prime Minister Sharif recalled the profound impact of the 2005 earthquake that affected Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and the unprecedented floods of 2022, underscoring the persistent vulnerability of the nation to natural disasters. He praised the people and institutions of Pakistan for their resilience and ability to recover from such devastating events.
The Prime Minister commended the NDMA for developing a robust mechanism for responding to natural disasters, which includes utilizing high-end technology for early warning systems that help save lives and protect infrastructure. He also urged all stakeholders to work together, leveraging each other’s strengths and capacities to enhance interoperability across local, zonal, national, and international levels.
On National Resilience Day, Prime Minister Sharif called for the adoption of best practices and the implementation of comprehensive policies that address various sectors such as infrastructure safety, disaster preparedness, poverty reduction, land use planning, adherence to building codes, effective water resource management, improved agricultural practices, and increased afforestation.
He also expressed gratitude towards the international community, civil society, and private donors for their support during the 2022 floods, highlighting the philanthropic spirit of the Pakistani people in times of crisis. The Prime Minister’s message concluded with a prayer for Divine guidance in strengthening Pakistan’s resilience and overcoming future challenges.