President A P J Abdul Kalam has mourned the loss of lives in Pakistan, caused by the earthquake of October 8.

Over 40,000 persons have lost their lives in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, while 1000 lives have been lost in the valley in India, particularly in Northern Kashmir. Sunday's earthquake was measured 7.6 on the Richter scale and had its epicentre in Muazzarrabad, in PoK.

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In a condolence message to President Musharraf, Dr Kalam has said that he is deeply moved by the loss of thousands of human lives in the tragedy.

"I am deeply grieved by the magnitude of the damage caused by the earthquake in Pakistan and the tragic loss of human lives. On behalf of the government and people of India, and on my own behalf, I would like to convey to you and to the people of Pakistan, our heartfelt sympathies. Please convey our sincere condolences to the bereaved families and to those injured in this natural disaster," President Kalam said.

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The President also wrote to Jammu and Kashmir [Images] Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed expressing shock and grief. He hoped the administration is taking all steps to minimise the misery of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Complete coverage: Tremors across borders