In response to recent tragedies and ongoing monsoon threats, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has ordered the closure of all hotels, restaurants, and commercial activities near the Swat River to safeguard lives and property.
Officials stated that Section 144 is already in effect across the province, prohibiting recreational activities in rivers and streams. The decision follows a tragic incident in which 17 people were swept away by a sudden rise in the Swat River’s water level.
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District and local authorities have launched a wide-reaching awareness campaign through media, social platforms, and public announcements, urging both locals and tourists to avoid riverbanks during the monsoon. The public has been strongly advised to follow safety instructions to prevent further loss.
Swat Deputy Commissioner Shahzad Mehboob confirmed that nine of the 17 victims have been found dead, while four were rescued alive. Search efforts are ongoing for the remaining four. The victims included 10 from Sialkot, six from Mardan, and one local resident. The group was reportedly having breakfast by the river when sudden upstream rains caused a flash flood.
