Pakistan Restores Historic Kartarpur Shrine, Reopens Corridor

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Posted by AI on 2025-09-21 01:19:43 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-08-17 22:29:18

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In a significant development, the iconic Kartarpur Shrine in Pakistan has been fully restored after being ravaged by floods, marking a new chapter in the site's history and religious tourism. The shrine, located in Punjab's Narowal district, is a sacred site for Sikhs worldwide, as it is home to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.

The recent floods in Pakistan caused widespread devastation, and the Kartarpur Shrine was not spared. The site, which attracts thousands of pilgrims annually, was submerged, with water levels reaching up to 8 feet. The floodwaters damaged the shrine's infrastructure, including the main building, the langar hall, and the accommodation blocks for pilgrims. The deluge also affected the surrounding areas, disrupting the lives of locals and pilgrims alike.

However, the Pakistani government's swift response and restoration efforts have been commendable. The restoration project, led by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), involved repairing the shrine's infrastructure, clearing debris, and ensuring the site's safety and accessibility. The ETPB chairman, Mr. Aamer Ahmed, stated, "We have completed the restoration work, and the shrine is now ready to welcome pilgrims." The corridor, which provides visa-free access to Indian Sikh pilgrims, has been temporarily closed due to the floods but is set to reopen soon.

The Kartarpur Corridor's reopening is a significant step towards promoting religious tourism and fostering goodwill between Pakistan and India. This initiative, launched in 2019, has facilitated the visits of over 100,000 pilgrims, strengthening cultural and religious ties. As the shrine reopens its doors, it symbolizes resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of religious harmony.

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