On August 29, 2025, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir visited flood-affected areas in Pakistan’s Sialkot sector, including Shakargarh, Narowal, and Kartarpur. During his visit, he assured the Sikh community that all flood-damaged religious sites, including Durbar Sahib Kartarpur, would be fully restored, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Pakistan is currently facing severe challenges due to torrential monsoon rains, which have led to flash floods, swollen rivers, and filled dams. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has reported the evacuation of over 210,000 residents near the Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab rivers. This situation has been worsened by India’s release of excess water from its dams. On August 27, India issued its third flood warning, this time for the Sutlej River, following earlier alerts for the Ravi. These floods have devastated communities, especially in Punjab, where infrastructure and religious sites have suffered significant damage.
During his visit, Field Marshal Munir received a comprehensive briefing on the flood situation and the preparations for the upcoming rains. He commended both the Pakistan Army and the civil administration for their relentless efforts in rescue and relief operations. While addressing the Sikh community, he emphasised the state’s responsibility to protect minorities and their sacred sites, stating, “Pakistan will leave no stone unturned to fulfil its duty toward minorities.” His commitment includes the restoration of Durbar Sahib Kartarpur, an important pilgrimage site for Sikhs.
#ISPR
Rawalpindi, 29 August, 2025
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Army Staff (#COAS) #Pakistan Army, visited flood affected areas of #Punjab including Sialkot Sector, Shakargarh, Narowal and Kartarpur.
The visit was aimed to review the flood situation and… pic.twitter.com/N6wKlAFJOU
— Pakistan Armed Forces News 🇵🇰 (@PakistanFauj) August 29, 2025Sikh Community’s Response
The Sikh community warmly welcomed the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Munir, in the Sialkot sector. They expressed their gratitude for the support provided by the Pakistan Army and the civil administration during the recent crisis. General Munir conducted an aerial flyover of Durbar Sahib Kartarpur to assess the flood damage firsthand. This gesture reinforced the military’s commitment to preserving the community’s heritage.
The Pakistan Army, in collaboration with Rescue 1122 and local authorities, has played a crucial role in evacuating residents and providing relief to those affected. Relief camps have been established to offer food, shelter, and medical care, resulting in the relocation of over 2,500 people and 1,700 animals, as reported by the NDMA. Munir praised the troops for their high morale and readiness, acknowledging their service in challenging conditions. He also commended the civil administration for its proactive response, which helped minimise loss of life and property.
