Victims of 2005 quake remembered

MUZAFFARABAD: The 6th anniversary of 8th October earthquake is being observed in Azad Kashmir and Islamabad today (Saturday), Geo News reported. The government of Azad Kashmir has announced a public holiday today.
The day started with special prayers at Azad Jammu and Kashmir University for the souls of the martyrs of the earthquake as well as progress and prosperity of Pakistan. One-minute silence was observed at 8.52 am to pay homage to the victims during which the traffic came to a standstill.
A collective prayer was held at University ground Muzaffarabad and floral wreath was laid at the monument of the martyrs. Azad Kashmir flag was hoisted at half mast in all the public buildings of the state.
Functions and seminars will be arranged all over Azad Kashmir to pay tribute to the Pakistan Armed Forces‚ government and the people of Pakistan‚ National and international NGOs for their unprecedented contribution for relief‚ rehabilitation and reconstruction activities in the quake hit areas of Azad Kashmir.
Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani will visit Muzaffarabd to show solidarity with the victims and lay a foundation stone of seven development projects of Azad Kashmir.
The PM will also inaugurate the first medical college of Azad Kashmir, Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital in Muzaffarabad.
On the other hand, traders are protesting against halting the developmental projects in Bagh and Muzaffabad and vowed to struggle until the projects are completed.