Families throng Lahore canal on Eid despite swimming ban

LAHORE: Large numbers of residents spent the third and final day of Eidul Azha along the Lahore canal, where families gathered for picnics and relief from the heat despite an official ban on swimming imposed by the city administration.

Hundreds of people, including women and children, visited different stretches of the canal during the day. Many brought homemade food and set up informal family gatherings on the banks, while others entered the water to cool off in the hot weather.

Eyewitnesses said families arrived early and carried traditional Eid dishes such as qorma, beef pulao and barbecue items. Some visitors were also seen placing fruits, including mangoes and watermelons, in the canal water to chill them before eating. Women and children were reported to have spent time in the smaller channels branching off from the main canal.

Many people were bathing in the canal, while young boys dived from raised spots and took part in recreational activity in the water. The canal, which runs through central Lahore, has long served as a popular outing spot during summer and on public holidays.

The city administration has enforced restrictions on swimming this year over safety concerns, warning that violators could face legal action and heavy fines. Officials also deployed members of the Pera Force at various points along the canal to stop people from entering the water and issued repeated warnings asking citizens to stay out.

Despite those measures, large numbers continued to enter the canal. One visitor, speaking about the intense weather, said families had turned to the canal because of the heat.

"The heat has become unbearable, and the canal's cold water provides comfort and relaxation," he said, adding: "That is why so many families have come here despite the restrictions."

The crowds remained along the canal until evening, with families combining food, recreation and holiday celebrations on the final day of Eidul Azha.