SWAT:

A flash flood in Swat near the GE Qurban Hotel on the Swat Bypass has caused devastating losses, with at least 12 dead, 61 individuals rescued, and 10 still missing.

The provincial government launched extensive rescue operations, involving 120 rescue workers at eight different locations across Swat. The flood has resulted in significant casualties, with six bodies recovered from the Swat Bypass near GE Qurban Hotel, three from Angro Dheri, and three from the Swat Bypass Relax Hotel.

Rescue teams have saved 61 individuals from various flood-affected areas, including three from the Swat Bypass near GE Qurban Hotel and 58 from various locations along the Swat River Bypass Road.

Additionally, 20-30 people were rescued from Bara Bama Khail in Mita, and 22 others were rescued from Imam Dheri. However, the search continues for 10 missing individuals, including seven from the Ghali Gay area, one from Panjigram, and two others from different locations.

The fast-moving floodwaters have presented significant challenges to the rescue teams, but efforts remain ongoing. The district of Malakand is a primary area for the search for missing individuals. Due to the intensity of the flooding, the provincial government has enforced Section 144, prohibiting recreational activities along riverbeds.

Residents gather, after tourists, who were on a picnic, were swept away by overflowing floodwaters in the Swat River, in Swat Valley in Pakistan June 27, 2025. Photo: Reuters

All hotels, restaurants, and commercial activities near the Swat River have been closed temporarily. Authorities have urged the public to stay away from riverbeds and follow safety guidelines to prevent further casualties.

In response to the disaster, the chief minister has announced compensation for the families of the deceased victims. A committee has been formed to investigate the incident, and the provincial government is closely monitoring the situation as rescue operations continue.

K-P govt suspends ADC, three others

Meanwhile, the KhyberPakhtunkhwa (K-P) government suspended four officials, including the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Swat, following the tragic drowning of tourists in Swat.

According to a notification issued by the Establishment Department, the suspensions were made on the directives of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. The officials suspended include Swat Additional Deputy Commissioner Ehsanul Haq, Assistant Commissioner Babuzai, Assistant Commissioner Khwazakhela, and District Emergency Officer of Rescue 1122, Saad Khan.

Assistant Commissioner Babuzai was suspended for a delayed response, while the Assistant Commissioner of Khwazakhela was removed for failing to issue timely warnings. The Additional Deputy Commissioner (Relief) was suspended for not taking preventive measures, and the district in-charge of Rescue 1122 was also relieved of duty.

The provincial government has also constituted a two-member inquiry committee, headed by Chairman Provincial Inspection Team (PIT) Khayam Hassan Khan. The committee has been directed to submit its findings within seven days.

Speaking on the matter, provincial advisor Barrister Saif said the action against the officials was taken on the chief minister’s orders in light of the incident. He added that a formal inquiry has been launched under the Provincial Inspection Team to determine individual responsibility.

He noted that further disciplinary action may be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.