Islamabad (TDI): On the occasion of National Resilience Day, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reflected on the tragic earthquake of October 8, 2005, which devastated Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
He extended heartfelt prayers to all who suffered losses during that catastrophic event.
In his message, the prime minister also highlighted the subsequent floods of 2022, describing them as a mega disaster that surpassed all previous records.
He commended the resilience of the Pakistani people and institutions, noting their unwavering ability to recover from calamities and national crises exacerbated by climate change and environmental hazards.
He pointed out that while Pakistan faces significant impacts from climate change, it is not responsible for the crisis.
The prime minister lamented that the frequent occurrence of extreme weather events has severely affected the country’s struggling economy.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for its diligent work in establishing an effective national response mechanism for natural disasters.
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He emphasized the importance of reducing vulnerability and developing coping strategies for effective disaster management.
The prime minister expressed satisfaction with the capabilities of the NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), which utilizes advanced technology to provide early warnings for disasters, ultimately saving lives and protecting infrastructure.
He urged all stakeholders to foster collaboration by understanding each other’s strengths and limitations.
The prime minister called for maximized interoperability among local, zonal, national, and global entities, as well as public and private sectors, through a comprehensive “whole of society” approach.
He stressed the need for efficient coordination, development of contingency plans, and effective risk communication to reach the most remote communities.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described National Resilience Day as a reminder to adopt best practices and implement policies aimed at enhancing the nation’s resilience.
He outlined various sectors that should be prioritized, including the safe development of infrastructure, improved disaster preparedness, poverty alleviation, sustainable land use planning, adherence to building codes, efficient water resource management, sound agricultural practices, and increased afforestation across the country, including coastal areas.
PM Expresses Gratitude to International Community
On this significant day, the prime minister expressed gratitude for the support extended by the international community, civil society, and private philanthropists in strengthening national response efforts during the 2022 floods.
He concluded by acknowledging the philanthropic spirit of the Pakistani people, who have consistently demonstrated generosity in times of crisis, as seen during the earthquake of 2005 and the floods of 2022.
“With Allah’s grace, we have always persevered through calamities with the support of our brave citizens,” he affirmed.
“May Allah guide us in building a strong and resilient Pakistan,” the prime minister concluded.
