Islamabad, Dec 16: Monday marks the 10th anniversary of the Army Public School (APS) attack, a tragic event that stands as one of Pakistan’s darkest moments.
On December 16, 2014, six militants from the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban stormed APS, claiming the lives of 132 students and 17 staff members. This devastating attack left families shattered and reignited the nation’s determination to fight terrorism, resulting in the launch of the National Action Plan to address militancy in tribal areas.
A decade later, the sorrow remains deeply felt as families of the victims come together to honor their loved ones, visiting their homes to share their grief and provide mutual support.
Memorial events are being held at educational institutions across Peshawar, where prayers are being offered for the martyrs.
Additionally, in response to security concerns, the Punjab School Education Department has declared that all public and private schools in Punjab and Islamabad will remain closed on December 16.
Authorities in Islamabad, Lahore, and Rawalpindi have issued similar directives, confirming the closure of schools and colleges in their respective regions.
Exams planned for the day have been postponed. While no official explanation for the closures was provided in Islamabad and Lahore, Rawalpindi authorities stated the decision was made to commemorate the APS attack, one of the deadliest acts of terrorism in Pakistan’s history.
