Swat, June 30, 2025: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced Rs1.5 million in compensation for the families of each individual who lost their life in the devastating flash floods that struck the Swat River near Mingora Bypass. The announcement was made by Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah during his visit to the affected areas on Saturday.
According to official updates, 58 of the 85 stranded individuals have been successfully rescued, while search operations are ongoing for those still missing. Rescue teams have so far recovered 11 bodies from the river, battling against difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions.
Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah also confirmed that several officials, including the district officer of Rescue 1122, have been suspended for negligence. An inquiry committee has been established to investigate the delayed emergency response and hold the responsible parties accountable.
He acknowledged that bad weather and time constraints prevented helicopter support during the critical early stages of the crisis but assured the public that rescue operations are now fully mobilized with enhanced coordination.
To prevent similar disasters in the future, the provincial government has banned all forms of excavation in the Swat River and launched a crackdown on illegal encroachments along riverbanks. In addition, new safety protocols for tourists have been issued to ensure better public protection in high-risk areas.
Expressing deep condolences on behalf of the provincial government, the Chief Secretary reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and ensuring swift and effective responses in future emergencies.
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi honored two local youth, Muhammad Hilal Khan and Asmat Ali, who risked their lives to rescue stranded tourists during the flash floods. Using a makeshift raft, the young men successfully saved multiple lives, earning national admiration for their bravery.
In recognition of their courageous efforts, the governor met the two rescuers at the Governor House and presented them with commemorative shields. He announced that both would be sent on Umrah and pledged to recommend their names for national civil awards to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Governor Kundi also directed the Red Crescent Society to strengthen emergency response capacity in Swat by equipping local offices with boats and rescue gear, ensuring faster interventions during future flood emergencies.
Both Hilal Khan and Asmat Ali expressed heartfelt gratitude for the acknowledgment of their actions and vowed to continue serving their community in times of need.
