OCTOBER 8, 2005 remains one of the darkest and most unforgettable days in the history of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. In a matter of seconds, a powerful earthquake destroyed homes, schools, roads and bridges, claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands of people. Measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale, its epicentre was near Muzaffarabad. Pakistan suffered an estimated 73,000 deaths, while the social, economic and administrative fabric of the affected region was shattered. Muzaffarabad suffered the greatest devastation, while Bagh, Poonch, Rawalakot, Sudhanoti and other mountainous areas also experienced heavy losses. Among the most painful images were children trapped beneath collapsed school buildings. Thousands of educational institutions were destroyed or damaged, along with hospitals, government offices, communication networks, electricity systems and vital infrastructure. It became a profound humanitarian and development crisis. Yet, amid this devastation, another chapter of national history was written. When roads were blocked, communications disrupted and entire communities isolated, Pakistan’s Armed Forces, particularly the Pakistan Army, moved rapidly into action. Their response became an extraordinary humanitarian mission.

Army engineers began opening vital routes almost immediately. Military helicopters evacuated the........

© Pakistan Observer