Save Our Pak
A powerful flood in the Swat River has caused serious destruction in the tourist area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to reports, 18 tourists have drowned, including 10 people from the same family. So far, 4 bodies have been recovered and 3 people have been rescued. However, 11 are still missing, as Reported By Save Our Pak News Channel On Friday.
Due to heavy rain, low-lying areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are now under water, and the Swat River is overflowing. The nearby streams have also flooded, reaching the nearby towns and villages. A tourist from Daska said that his four female family members and six children were swept away by the water. He added that three more people also fell into the river. They were sitting near the Swat River for breakfast when the sudden flood hit and trapped everyone.
Rescue teams said that 80 workers are part of the operation. Despite the fast flow of water, rescue efforts are still going on. Due to bad weather and the strong current, it has been hard to reach the other missing people. So far, four bodies have been found, including two children.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Rescue Director General Shah Fahad shared that three people stuck in different areas have been saved. He added that water levels in the Swat River are still rising, and rescue teams are working in five different locations to find the remaining people.
Authorities have warned people and tourists to stay away from rivers and streams. There’s a chance of more rain in Swat and nearby areas in the next few days. After the tragic loss of lives, the PDMA (Provincial Disaster Management Authority) has issued an emergency alert.
The PDMA stated that there is a major risk of a high-level flood in the Swat River. At Khwazakhela point, the water flow has reached 77,782 cusecs. Due to the ongoing rain, districts like Peshawar, Charsadda, and Nowshera have been placed on high alert. People are being asked to take immediate safety steps to protect lives, homes, crops, and animals.
The PDMA has also identified high-risk areas and ordered safety measures there. Rescue, Civil Defence, and other emergency departments have been told to stay alert in low-lying and sensitive areas. People living near the Kabul River and its branches are being warned about possible danger.
Local officials have been told to move people from risky areas to safer places. In the relief camps, food, medicines, and shelter must be provided without delay. Farmers and animal keepers are also advised to shift their animals away from riverbanks and low lands.
People are strongly advised not to travel unnecessarily or use vehicles in dangerous areas. Emergency equipment should already be placed at key locations in case of flooding. The PDMA has confirmed that the Provincial Emergency Operations Center is active 24/7. Citizens can call helpline 1700 for any emergency or information.
