Punjab, August 29, 2025 — Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited flood-affected districts of Punjab, including Sialkot Sector, Shakargarh, Narowal, and Kartarpur, to personally review ongoing rescue and relief efforts. During the visit, he reaffirmed the state’s unwavering commitment to protecting minority communities and their sacred heritage, vowing to restore all damaged religious sites, including the revered Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, to their original form.
The visit comes amid one of the worst flooding disasters in over a decade, as rivers across Punjab, including the Ravi, overflowed. The Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, a site of immense significance for the global Sikh community and the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, was partially submerged when the Ravi River breached its banks. Floodwaters rose up to four feet inside the complex. Authorities confirmed that the sacred Saroop of Guru Granth Sahib Ji was safely moved to an upper floor, averting any damage to the holy scripture. However, the incident forced the temporary closure of the Kartarpur Corridor, a vital cross-border passage for pilgrims from India and abroad.
Interacting with members of the Sikh community, Field Marshal Munir extended condolences and assured them that all religious sites would be fully restored on a priority basis. “It is the responsibility of the state and its institutions to safeguard minorities and their places of worship,” he stated. “The state of Pakistan will leave no stone unturned in upholding this responsibility.” The Sikh community warmly received the Army Chief and expressed gratitude for the relief services provided by the Army and civil administration during the calamity.
Field Marshal Munir also conducted an aerial survey of affected areas, including Kartarpur Sahib, and was briefed on the evolving situation and preparations for fresh spells of rain. He commended the coordinated efforts of troops and civil authorities, praising their morale, professionalism, and dedication under extremely challenging conditions.
The Army Chief’s visit carried a powerful message of solidarity and inclusivity, underscoring that every citizen, regardless of faith, is protected and valued. Pakistan has consistently emphasized the Kartarpur Corridor as a “corridor of peace” and a symbol of interfaith harmony. The pledge to restore Darbar Sahib to its original condition reflects the state’s commitment to ensuring that minority communities remain secure and their sacred traditions preserved, even in the face of natural disasters.
