Eastern Punjab in Pakistan has been ravaged by unprecedented floods in 2025. Triggered by record monsoon rains and the sudden release of upstream dam waters, the disaster has affected over 1.4 million people, causing the displacement of nearly 250,000 residents. Entire villages lie submerged, and even Kartarpur Sahib—one of Sikhism’s holiest sites—has been heavily impacted.
Displaced Residents: Approximately 250,000 people have been forced to leave their homes.
Fatalities: At least 15–20 people have lost their lives due to drowning and flood-related accidents.
Villages Submerged: Over 1,600 villages have been inundated, especially along the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers.
Causes Behind the Floods
- Record-Breaking Rainfall: Sialkot recorded 360 mm of rain in just 24 hours, breaking a 49-year record.
- Dam Releases: India’s upstream water release added to the already swollen rivers in Punjab.
- Environmental Degradation: Deforestation and rapid urbanization have worsened runoff, intensifying the floods.
Kartarpur Sahib, one of Sikhism’s holiest sites, has been largely submerged, delivering a symbolic and heartbreaking blow to the region’s cultural and religious heritage. The historic gurdwara, a spiritual center for millions, now stands partially underwater, highlighting the severity of the floods. Beyond religious landmarks, essential infrastructure—including roads, bridges, and schools—has been heavily damaged, severely disrupting daily life. The floods have also crossed into Indian Punjab, triggering emergency rescue operations in districts like Gurdaspur and Fazilka. In one major effort, around 400 students were safely evacuated from flooded schools, while border infrastructure near Mehdipur sustained significant damage, underlining the regional scale and intensity of this disaster.
The 2025 Punjab floods serve as a stark reminder of the increasing risks posed by climate change and environmental mismanagement. Swift action, both from governments and citizens, is critical to mitigate the human and economic toll of future disasters.
Call to Action: Support flood relief efforts in Pakistan and India through verified organizations, and advocate for sustainable water management practices.
Khalsa Aid’s 2025 Floods Project Page Khalsa Aid