COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir vows to fully restore flood-hit Kartarpur Gurdwara, assuring protection of minority religious sites in Punjab.
COAS Assures Protection of Minority Religious Sites
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has assured that all religious sites of minorities damaged by recent floods, including the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, will be restored to their original condition.
He emphasized that it is the state’s duty to protect minorities and their places of worship, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding religious heritage.
Visit to Flood-Hit Areas of Punjab
On August 29, 2025, the COAS visited several flood-affected districts of Punjab, including Sialkot, Shakargarh, Narowal, and Kartarpur. During the visit, he:
- Reviewed ongoing rescue and relief operations
- Received a briefing on preparations for the upcoming rain spell
- Met members of the Sikh community affected by the floods
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Kartarpur Sahib Under Floodwater
The Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, one of Sikhism’s holiest shrines and believed to be the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, was partially submerged after the Ravi River overflowed.
Floodwaters, reaching up to four feet, entered parts of the white-marble complex. Authorities confirmed that the sacred Saroop of Guru Granth Sahib Ji and volunteers were safely moved to the upper floors.
Due to heavy flooding, the Kartarpur Corridor — which connects Pakistan’s Kartarpur with India’s Gurdaspur — has been temporarily closed for pilgrims
Sikh Community Welcomes COAS
While interacting with Sikh community members, Field Marshal Asim Munir promised that restoration of the shrine would be treated as a priority.
“It is the responsibility of the state and its institutions to safeguard minorities and their places of worship, COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir
The Sikh community expressed gratitude for the relief efforts carried out by the army and civil administration during the calamity.
Review of Rescue and Relief Operations
The army chief also conducted an aerial survey of Kartarpur Sahib and other affected areas. He appreciated the civil administration and troops for their coordinated response, which helped minimize the loss of lives and property.
He commended the soldiers for their high morale, readiness, and tireless dedication in serving the people under difficult conditions.
Pakistan’s Commitment to Minorities
The visit highlighted Pakistan’s stance on protecting minorities and their sacred places, even during natural disasters. Asim Munir reaffirmed that the state will leave no stone unturned in fulfilling its duty towards religious harmony. During his interaction, Asim Munir stressed that safeguarding minorities is a core responsibility of the state. By assuring full restoration of religious sites, Asim Munir emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to cultural preservation and unity.
