Families flock to Lahore canal despite swimming ban

LAHORE:

As temperature soared on the third and final day of Eidul Azha, hundreds of Lahore residents turned to the city's canal to celebrate the holiday with their families and seek relief from the intense heat, despite an official ban on swimming imposed by the city administration.

Families, including women and children, gathered along different stretches of the canal throughout the day, carrying homemade food, enjoying picnics and cooling off in the water.

Many residents were seen bathing in the canal, while young boys performed daring dives from elevated spots and engaged in playful activities in the water.

According to eyewitnesses, families arrived early in the day with traditional Eid dishes such as qorma, beef pulao and barbecue items, setting up informal gatherings along the canal banks.

Some people were also seen placing fruits, including mangoes and watermelons, into the canal water to cool them before eating.

Women and children particularly enjoyed the smaller water channels branching from the main canal, where they spent hours escaping the scorching weather.

The canal, which passes through the heart of Lahore, has long remained a popular recreational spot during summer months and public holidays.

However, the city administration has imposed strict restrictions on swimming this year, warning of legal action and heavy fines against violators due to safety concerns.

Officials deployed members of the "Pera Force" at various points along the canal to discourage people from entering the water.

Authorities repeatedly announced warnings and advised citizens to avoid swimming, but large numbers of people continued to enter the canal without fear of penalties.

Residents said the extreme weather conditions had forced them to seek relief wherever possible.

"The heat has become unbearable, and the canal's cold water provides comfort and relaxation," said one visitor enjoying the canal with his family.

"That is why so many families have come here despite the restrictions."

The festive atmosphere continued until evening, with crowded canal banks reflecting Lahore's traditional Eid spirit, where families combined celebration, food and recreation to mark the final day of Eidul Azha.