Grief of 2005 earthquake still fresh, institutions must be ready for disasters: Maryam Nawaz

LAHORE (Atemad Desk): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the earthquake of 8 October 2005 on the 21st National Day of Resilience. She said every Pakistani still feels the grief of the victims of this extraordinary earthquake.

In her message, she said the nation’s sympathy and spirit of sacrifice in that devastating hour were unforgettable. She said the unity and steadfastness shown by the people during earthquakes and floods were a proud national trait. She paid tribute to the services of the institutions involved in rescue and relief, including the Pakistan Army, Pakistan Navy, Pakistan Air Force, Rescue 1122 and the police.

The Chief Minister said institutions should always be prepared for natural disasters, because advance preparation alone saves lives, property and the environment from destruction. She said an effective policy and lasting measures were essential to deal with floods, earthquakes and smog caused by climate change.

She said Punjab faced the biggest flood in its history. The province carried out the largest rescue, relief and evacuation operation in its history, and millions of people, along with millions of livestock, were saved. She said the Punjab Disaster Management Authority had been brought in line with modern requirements, and provincial institutions were active at all times to protect the public.