What Happened to the 18 Tourists Swept Away in Swat Flash Floods?
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Synopsis
In a heartbreaking incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, seven lives were tragically lost when flash floods swept away 18 tourists, including children. Witnesses reported significant delays in rescue efforts, raising concerns about local authorities' response. This disaster has left families shattered and questions lingering about safety measures for tourists in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Seven fatalities reported due to flash floods in Swat.
- 18 tourists were involved in the incident.
- Eyewitnesses criticized the delays in rescue operations.
- Families of victims are calling for accountability.
- Authorities need to improve tourist safety measures.
Islamabad, June 27 (NationPress) Tragedy struck as seven individuals lost their lives when 18 tourists, comprising women and children, were swept away by sudden flash floods on Friday in the Swat River located in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The unfortunate event took place in the Fizagat region, where two families were enjoying breakfast by the riverbank when an unexpected surge in the water level carried many of them away, as reported by local media.
Rescue officials confirmed that three individuals were rescued during ongoing operations.
"We were alerted about the drowning incident around 8 am. There were tourists on the riverside who were unaware of the water surge," stated a rescue official.
Shahzad Mehboob, the Deputy Commissioner of Swat, confirmed that seven bodies have been recovered so far. He added that nearly 73 individuals were trapped in various locations due to the sudden floods, complicating rescue efforts.
A distressed tourist recounted that 10 members of his family were swept away, with one woman's body recovered and a search underway for nine children.
"We were having breakfast and tea when the children went to take a selfie near the river. At that moment, the water level was low," the family member shared with local media.
He further mentioned that rescue teams arrived hours after the incident was reported, by which time the children who were still in the river had already been carried away.
A shocking video capturing the incident has circulated widely on social media, showing women and children struggling in the river as onlookers expressed their disbelief.
Eyewitnesses have criticized local authorities for gross negligence, stating that the stranded tourists received no assistance for nearly two hours before being swept away, despite their cries for help.
Reports indicate that the victims hailed from Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Point of View
My perspective is unwaveringly aligned with the nation’s interests. This incident highlights the need for improved safety protocols for tourists in our beautiful regions. We must ensure that such tragedies do not repeat, and that our authorities are held accountable for their roles in safeguarding lives.
NationPress
27/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tourists were involved in the Swat flash floods?
A total of 18 tourists were swept away by the flash floods in the Swat River.
What caused the tourists to be swept away?
The tourists were having breakfast near the riverbank when a sudden rise in the water level occurred.
What measures are being taken for rescue operations?
Rescue teams are currently working to locate and save the trapped individuals, though they face significant challenges.
What criticism has been directed at local authorities?
Eyewitnesses have criticized local authorities for negligence, claiming that stranded tourists received no assistance for nearly two hours.
Where were the victims from?
The victims were reportedly residents of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
