At least 18 tourists from Daska were swept away in the Swat River near the Mingora Bypass on Saturday following a sudden flash flood, triggering a massive rescue operation involving Rescue 1122, Pakistan Army, and local authorities.
According to Rescue 1122 officials, seven bodies have been recovered, three people rescued, while eight others remain missing as of the latest update.
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The tourists, all members of the same extended family, were reportedly enjoying breakfast near the riverbank when a sudden surge of water overwhelmed the area. Family members said that some members, including women and children, were taking pictures near the water when they were caught in the strong current.
“The water came suddenly — they had no chance to escape,” said Rana Ahmed Ali, a grieving relative of the victims.
Section 144 Was Already in Place
Swat Assistant Commissioner Dr. Nida Iqbal confirmed that Section 144 had been imposed along the river since June 2 due to flood risks, and over 45 violations had been registered prior to the incident.
Despite preemptive measures, including warning signs and flood alerts, the tourists were unaware of the dangers. Swat Mayor Shahid Ali stated, “An alert had been issued around 8 a.m., but by the time we reached, the damage was already done.”
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More than 80 rescue personnel have been deployed in the ongoing operation. Malakand Division Commissioner Abid Wazir confirmed the launch of a formal inquiry to investigate possible negligence. The Pakistan Army has also joined efforts, deploying additional troops and rescue equipment.
A preliminary report from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government states that out of 75 people trapped, 58 have been rescued, while 10 are still missing. Operations are being carried out at eight different points along the river.
Identified Victims
Among the deceased are:
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Shermin and Tazmin, daughters of Abdul Salam (Sialkot)
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Mariam, daughter of Mohsin
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Ayan, son of Muhammad
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Ashal and Farman, children from Mardan
Searches continue for several missing individuals, including two sisters Ashal and Anfal, as well as Haima and Abdullah.
Government Response
Chief Minister KP Ali Amin Gandapur has announced financial compensation for the families and formed a high-level inquiry committee. The PDMA has issued a high alert across KP, particularly for Swat, Peshawar, Charsadda, and Nowshera due to rising water levels.
Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz expressed deep grief and extended condolences to the affected families. “May Allah give strength to the bereaved families in this time of tragedy,” she said in a statement.
Allegations of Delayed Rescue
Family members have alleged a delayed response from Rescue 1122, claiming the team arrived more than an hour late and initially lacked adequate equipment. Rescue officials have yet to respond to these serious accusations.
