SWAT: Encroachment Threatens Swat River’s Scenic Beauty and Public Access
Swat — The once-pristine Swat River, a cherished natural resource known for its cool waters and picturesque riverbanks, is facing a serious threat due to increasing encroachments by powerful individuals, especially along the popular Bypass Road and Fizagat areas.
Both locations have long been beloved picnic and tourism spots for locals and visitors alike. However, residents and tourists are now raising alarms as these once open, scenic riverfront sites are rapidly disappearing—replaced by cement walls, private restaurants, and buildings, often constructed by politically influential people.
“This river is a shared natural asset, not the private property of a few influential people. We used to bring our families here in the summer to cool off, but now we are greeted by cement and walls,” lamented Gul Rahman, a resident of Mingora.
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Public Spaces Turned Private
Locals say many riverbank areas, historically open for public enjoyment, have now been fenced off or converted into private businesses. “Fizagat used to be the heart of local tourism, a green escape. Today, it is unrecognisable with private structures creeping in from every side,” said Shahida Bibi, a teacher from Saidu Sharif.
Tourists have expressed similar concerns. “We came to Swat to enjoy its natural beauty, but were shocked to find the riverbanks lined with restaurants and buildings. It feels like the river is being stolen from the people,” said Hamza Qureshi, a visitor from Lahore.
Environmental Impact and Warnings
Environmental experts warn that the illegal construction along the riverbank violates environmental protection laws and contributes to rising temperatures by replacing greenery with concrete.
“Swat is headed for an environmental crisis. River encroachment disrupts water flow, destroys aquatic ecosystems, and increases urban heat. If this trend continues, Swat will lose the very nature that makes it unique,” cautioned Dr. Rab Nawaz, an environmentalist based in Mingora.
Administrative Apathy and Public Outcry
Despite mounting complaints, the district administration has largely remained inactive. Many locals allege that the political influence of those responsible for the encroachments is behind the government’s silence.
“The silence of the authorities is deafening. Ordinary people are not allowed to build even a wall near the river, yet these influential individuals are constructing entire complexes without resistance,” said Amir Zeb, a civil society activist.
In response, residents and tourists have appealed to provincial and federal governments for urgent intervention. They demand the removal of illegal structures and restoration of public access to the riverfront.
A petition launched by local youth, calling to “let the Swat River flow free” and protect it from profiteering, has already garnered thousands of signatures within days.
A Warning for the Future
The unchecked encroachment of Swat’s riverbanks is more than a local concern—it signals a deeper environmental and governance crisis. Without swift action, the valley renowned for its rivers, forests, and fresh mountain air risks losing the very natural beauty that defines it.
