Alkhidmat conducts Seminar and Awareness Walk on 20th Anniversary of Earthquake

On the 20th anniversary of the devastating October 8, 2005 earthquake, Alkhidmat Karachi observed a National Disaster Resilience Day at Askari College, Bahadurabad. The program included an awareness seminar and an awareness walk, which was led by Executive Director Rashid Qureshi. Also present on the occasion were Senior Manager Disaster Management Sarfaraz Sheikh, Senior Manager Manzar Alam, and representatives from Alkhidmat Volunteer Management. Addressing the awareness seminar, Senior Manager Sarfaraz Sheikh emphasized the importance of being informed and prepared during emergencies. He said, “Every year on October 8, we observe this day to raise awareness about natural disasters, especially earthquakes. Although natural disasters cannot be stopped, their effects can certainly be reduced. By raising public awareness and ensuring effective governmental measures, the impact of natural disasters can be minimized. Encroachments and constructions along rivers reduce their natural flow, which leads to greater damage during disasters. Similarly, illegal construction on storm drains (nullahs) can cause severe losses during heavy rains and natural calamities.” The speakers spoke about the 2005 earthquake, its widespread devastation, and Alkhidmat’s relief efforts carried out at the time. According to them, “A lack of awareness among citizens about their rights is also a major cause of such issues. Construction should never be allowed along fault lines in mountainous areas. If people are informed and aware of their rights, they can draw the government’s attention to these dangers and play their role in reducing the growing risks of natural disasters.” The event concluded with an awareness walk, attended by students, volunteers, and staff.