Day of Commemoration and National Mourning in Turkmenistan

The Day of Commemoration and National Mourning is a significant annual observance in Turkmenistan, held on October 6th. This solemn day is dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives in the tragic events of the 1948 Ashgabat earthquake, as well as victims of wars and other disasters.

History

• 1948 Ashgabat Earthquake: The day marks the anniversary of the catastrophic earthquake that struck Ashgabat on October 6, 1948. Estimated at 7.3 on the Richter scale, it almost completely destroyed the city and caused an estimated 110,000 to 176,000 deaths, although the exact toll remains unknown due to Soviet secrecy at the time.

Traditions

• Moment of Silence: At exactly 11:17 AM, corresponding with the time when the earthquake occurred, people observe a moment of silence across the country.
• Memorial Services: Memorial services are held nationwide. Officials and citizens lay flowers at monuments and memorials dedicated to victims.
• Flags at Half-Mast: The national flag is flown at half-mast throughout Turkmenistan as a sign of respect and mourning.

What People Do

Residents participate in various commemorative activities including:

• Visiting gravesites: People pay respects to deceased family members by visiting cemeteries.
• Attending commemorative events: Citizens may attend cultural or religious events that honor those who have passed away.
• Reflecting on history: Many use this day as an opportunity to reflect upon not only the tragedy of the earthquake but also other significant losses faced by the nation throughout its history.

The Day of Commemoration and National Mourning serves both as a reminder of past tragedies and a unifying force for national solidarity in Turkmenistan.