PESHAWAR – The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has issued a 22-page written order directing authorities to submit a detailed report on the Swat tragedy, in which 18 tourists drowned in the Swat River on 27 June.
A two-member bench led by Chief Justice SM Attique Shah and Justice Faheem Wali heard the case. The court asked why two helicopters—available on-site—were not deployed during the rescue operation, even though the weather was clear and the situation was critical.
Also read: Flash Floods Claim Lives as Rescue System Collapses in Swat
The court directed the Provincial Inspection Team (PIT) to complete an inquiry and submit the report within 14 days. PIT Chairman appeared before the court and assured that the investigation would conclude in seven days and be shared with the provincial government. The bench instructed that the same report be submitted to the judiciary.
It also asked the Advocate General, Additional Attorney General, and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to clarify why the helicopters were not used despite being present. The court demanded a separate report detailing the steps taken after the tragedy to protect tourists and avoid future incidents.
Also Read: Monsoon Floods in Swat Trigger Devastation and Prompt High Alert
The petitioner’s lawyer blamed the administration’s negligence for the loss of lives. He highlighted that rescue was possible since helicopters were available and the weather was favourable, yet no timely action was taken.
After the incident, the provincial government suspended the Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner of Swat along with several other officials. The PIT completed its inquiry and sealed the report, which was then submitted to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
According to the findings, unauthorised hotel construction, encroachments along riverbanks, and diversion of the river’s natural path contributed to the high death toll. The report includes recommendations for further action and lists officers and departments responsible for the failure.
Also Read: PDMA Issues Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Alert for Northern KP districts
The court also asked the police and Rescue 1122 to submit separate reports. These must outline steps taken to prevent similar tragedies and explain how they plan to ensure tourist safety in the future.
The bench adjourned the hearing until the final submission of all reports. It will take further action once all documents have been reviewed.
