SIALKOT (Republicpk.com) Sialkot International Airport has suspended all flight operations after relentless rainfall and flash floods overwhelmed the region. With 364 millimeters of rain recorded in just 24 hours, the highest since 1961, the city’s infrastructure has been pushed to its limits, prompting urgent rerouting of flights to Lahore.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) confirmed that major international routes, including flights to Jeddah, Kuwait, and Dammam, will now operate from Lahore Airport. Special help desks have been set up there to assist affected travelers.
Airport officials stated that while the terminal and runway remain structurally sound, the rising floodwaters from surrounding areas made continued operations unsafe. Emergency crews are working with heavy machinery to drain water and restore access.
According to Urdu News, passengers caught in the disruption described the situation as deeply stressful. Muhammad Faisal, who had arrived in Sialkot for a flight to Jeddah, said he had waited outside the airport since morning, hoping the water would recede. “Now we’re told to rush to Lahore, but the roads are flooded and blocked. It’s very difficult,” he said.
Another passenger, Nadia Bano, traveling with young children, shared her ordeal. “We’ve already been stuck for hours due to rain. Now we’re expected to travel with kids and luggage in this weather. It’s exhausting,” she told Urdu News.
Beyond the airport, the downpour has inundated homes, shops, and farmland across the city. Rescue 1122 teams are actively relocating families from low-lying areas, using boats where needed. A spokesperson confirmed that operations are underway at dozens of locations.
The National Disaster Management Authority has issued a fresh alert, warning of continued heavy rain and thunderstorms across Punjab, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Pakistan-administered Kashmir over the next 48 hours. Citizens are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and follow official advisories.
Authorities hope to resume operations at Sialkot Airport once the water recedes and safety inspections are complete. Until then, all flights will operate from Lahore, and passengers are advised to stay in touch with airlines for updates.