COAS Assures Sikh Community of Restoration of Religious Sites

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir on Friday pledged to the Sikh community that all religious sites, including Durbar Sahib Kartarpur, impacted by the ongoing severe floods will be fully restored.

The army chief gave these assurances during a visit to areas affected by flooding in the Sialkot sector, which included Shakargarh, Narowal, and Kartarpur. The purpose of the visit was to assess the ongoing relief efforts and the preparations being made for the next phase of monsoon rains, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Pakistan is currently grappling with intense monsoon rains that have triggered flash floods, caused rivers to overflow, and filled dams. Tragically, over 800 deaths have been reported since late June. During the period of heavy rainfall, India released surplus water from its dams, which led to increased river flows in Punjab.

The NDMA reported that Pakistan has evacuated more than 210,000 residents from areas near the Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab rivers, all of which originate in India.

The day prior, Pakistani officials stated that India had issued its third flood warning since Sunday, this time concerning the Sutlej River. The previous two warnings were related to water flowing into Pakistan on the Ravi River.

During the visit, the COAS received a detailed briefing on the current situation and the preparations in place for the upcoming rains. He expressed his appreciation for the coordinated and tireless efforts of the troops and civil administration in rescuing and providing assistance to the affected population.

He reiterated the state and its institutions’ responsibility to safeguard minorities and their religious sites, affirming that Pakistan would make every possible effort to fulfill its obligations towards minorities.

The Sikh community warmly welcomed the COAS upon his arrival in the flood-stricken areas of the Sialkot Sector. They expressed their gratitude to the army chief for the services provided by the civil administration and the Pakistan Army during this crisis.

He also conducted an aerial survey of Darbar Sahib Kartarpur.

In discussions with representatives from the civil administration, the field marshal commended their proactive response, which helped minimize the loss of life and property.

During interactions with the troops, the COAS praised their high morale, operational readiness, and dedication to serving the nation. He acknowledged their valuable contributions to the people during the challenging rescue and relief operations.

Upon his arrival, Field Marshal Munir was greeted by the corps commander of Gujranwala.