MUZAFFARABAD (National Times) – The 17th anniversary of the killer earthquake of October 8, 2005 is being observed today (Saturday) across Azad Jammu and Kashmir with due feelings of seriousness, respect and determination.

The anniversary will be observed as the national day of awareness about safety from the natural disasters.

The day dawned with special prayers in the mosques at Fajr prayers across AJK for the departed souls of victims. It is be a gazetted holiday throughout AJK State.

The major ceremony to mark the day will be held at the capital city of Muzaffarabad, with the sign of deep-rooted love and affection by the government and the people of Pakistan as well as the national and international NGOs and brotherly foreign countries who contributed their exceptional share for the rebuilding and rehabilitation of the quake-hit zone of AJK.

Besides, special functions would be arranged to raise awareness among the people about adoption of per-cautionary measures to avert the losses in case of any natural catastrophe, the sources added.

In Mirpur, the major ceremony will be held where Fateha Khawani will be offered for the martyrs following blowing of sirens at 8.52 AM and observing two minutes silence to pay respect to the victims.

The special ceremonies include awareness walks, seminars and symposiums across the Valley which will be attended by the people representing all walks of life including social and political workers, lawyers, journalists and members of the business fraternity.