The Kartarpur Gurdwara, a sacred pilgrimage site for Sikhs around the world, has been restored and is preparing to reopen just days after unprecedented flooding left the historic shrine submerged.
The floods, which swamped the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib complex under nearly 12 feet of water, forced authorities to carry out an urgent rescue operation. Pilgrims trapped at the site were evacuated by motorboat before officials launched a massive cleanup and dewatering drive.
Government Orders Rapid Response
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif personally directed the restoration effort, tasking Suthra Punjab teams and multiple government departments to work around the clock. Local authorities, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Nankana Sahib, oversaw every stage of the operation to ensure the Gurdwara could reopen as quickly as possible.
Teams cleared the Darshan Deori, scrubbed the marble courtyard, and restored power and safety systems. Officials now say the shrine will welcome yatris (pilgrims) back within three to four days.
Sikh Community Praises Swift Action
Members of the Sikh community expressed relief and gratitude for the rapid restoration, noting how quickly the site was made safe again. The Kartarpur Corridor, which allows visa-free access for Indian Sikh pilgrims, is expected to resume operations without significant disruption.
Maryam Nawaz celebrated the effort in a post on social media, writing: “Kartarpur restored — from floods to faith. As a gesture of reverence to our Sikh brothers on both sides of the border, a special dewatering operation was carried out… It has now been restored to a dry, safe condition.”
This restoration underscores Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding Sikh religious heritage and maintaining one of the most significant pilgrimage routes in the region.