Historic Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan Submerged by Ravi River Floods
The historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan, one of Sikhism's holiest sites, has been partially submerged by severe floodwaters from the Ravi river. Visuals show water entering the main complex, with reports of two to four feet of standing water throughout the premises. The sacred Saroop of Guru Granth Sahib has been safely moved to a higher floor. The flooding has also inundated nearby fields and villages, disrupting access to the site, which is currently closed to Indian pilgrims.
Unpacked:
Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur is where Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, spent the last 18 years of his life, taught his followers, and composed hymns of the Guru Granth Sahib. Its history and connection to Guru Nanak make it a central pilgrimage site for Sikhs worldwide.
The Kartarpur Corridor is a visa-free border crossing between India and Pakistan, allowing Indian Sikh pilgrims direct access to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib without requiring a visa. It was inaugurated in November 2019, greatly easing travel for spiritual visits.
Flooding from the Ravi River has historically affected Kartarpur Sahib, given its riverside location. While the shrine's elevation and moving sacred items to higher floors are routine precautions, major floods still pose risks to the site and surrounding villages.
Access is closed due to flooding, which has submerged roads and the main complex, making travel unsafe. Pilgrim visits will likely resume after floodwaters recede and repairs are completed, although there is no official reopening date yet.[Summary]