The district administration in Peshawar has imposed a ban on swimming, boating, and other recreational activities in rivers, canals, and dams as part of precautionary measures during the ongoing monsoon season.
According to an official notification, the administration has enforced Section 144 across the district until the end of the monsoon period. The order prohibits swimming and unauthorized boating in various water bodies to prevent accidents caused by rising water levels and strong currents. Authorities warned that anyone violating the restrictions will face legal action under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code.
The ban covers several locations, including the Kabul River Canal, Jolly Sheikh Canal, Budhni Nullah, Bara River, Shah Alam River, Naguman River, and Adizai River. In addition, swimming has been prohibited in the Warsak Gravity Canal and Warsak Lift Canal. Recreational activities involving tyre tubes and gatherings along riverbanks have also been restricted due to safety concerns.
The administration said the decision was taken after weather forecasts predicted heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, increasing the risk of flash floods, strong water currents, and drowning incidents.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has also issued a high alert for several upper districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the possibility of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
According to the PDMA, rising temperatures are accelerating glacier melting, increasing the risk of sudden flooding in vulnerable mountainous regions. District administrations in Upper and Lower Chitral, Swat, Upper Dir, Kohistan, and Mansehra have been directed to remain on high alert and implement precautionary measures.
The authority has instructed Rescue 1122, district administrations, and other relevant departments to ensure emergency teams, rescue equipment, and resources are fully prepared to respond to any weather-related incidents.
Residents, particularly those living in vulnerable areas, as well as tourists visiting northern regions, have been advised to monitor weather updates regularly, avoid unnecessary travel near rivers and streams, and strictly follow instructions issued by local authorities. Officials said these preventive measures are intended to protect lives and minimize the impact of potential monsoon-related emergencies.
Also Read: Pakistan to Receive Week-Long Monsoon Rains
