Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah visited Swat on Saturday to oversee rescue operations following the devastating flash flood that struck near the Mingora Bypass, leaving several dead and many others stranded in the Swat River.
During his visit, Shahab announced financial compensation of Rs1.5 million for the families of each deceased victim. He confirmed that 58 of the 85 people initially trapped in the river had been rescued, while search efforts continue. So far, 11 bodies have been recovered.
In response to the apparent administrative failure, several officials — including the district head of Rescue 1122 — have been suspended for negligence. Shahab stated that a formal inquiry committee has been constituted to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
He explained that poor weather and limited daylight hampered the timely deployment of helicopters during the critical early hours of the rescue operation. Nonetheless, he stressed that the government had since taken decisive steps, including an immediate ban on excavation in the Swat River and action against illegal encroachments along its banks.
To prevent similar incidents, the Chief Secretary announced the introduction of comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for tourists visiting the area.
Offering condolences on behalf of the K-P government, Shahab reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting the affected families and strengthening disaster response measures to avoid future tragedies.
