Swat( The COW News Digital) Authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have intensified their anti-encroachment operation along the Swat River, demolishing illegal constructions, including the boundary wall of a hotel owned by Federal Minister Amir Maqam.
The operation follows a tragic incident in the Swat region that drew public and governmental attention to the hazards of unregulated construction near water bodies. Officials confirmed that demolitions continued for the second consecutive day, targeting structures that posed potential risks to public safety and disrupted the natural flow of the river.
According to the local administration, a total of 26 hotels and restaurants have been subjected to demolition so far. Among them was the hotel where the victims of the recent Swat tragedy had breakfast shortly before the incident. That establishment was also razed as part of the sweeping operation.
The most high-profile target was a hotel reportedly owned by Federal Minister for Political Affairs Amir Maqam. While only the boundary wall was demolished during the initial phase, hotel staff intervened and halted further destruction.
Minister Amir Maqam strongly condemned the action, stating, “We have a valid building NOC. My hotel is not on encroached land. This is a politically motivated move by the provincial government.” He added that legal avenues would be explored to challenge the demolition.
However, district authorities insist that the operation is impartial and necessary. “Our objective is to ensure the safety of tourists and locals by clearing unauthorized structures built dangerously close to the river,” an official from the district administration told reporters.
The issue of encroachments along the Swat River has long been a concern, especially during seasonal flooding when poorly located buildings exacerbate the risk of disaster. The provincial government, under increasing pressure from environmentalists and the public, has vowed to reclaim the riverbanks and prevent future tragedies.
Observers say the move signals a broader campaign to restructure tourism zones across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasizing regulated construction and environmental responsibility.
