Swat( The COW News Digital)A shocking investigation into the recent tragedy in Swat’s Fazagat–Ghat area, which claimed 13 lives, has unveiled a web of illegal constructions, alleged mafia engineering, and administrative omissions, according to Express News.
Preliminary findings suggest that the disaster was precipitated by unauthorized earthen dams—built using soil and stones—to divert river flow. These were reportedly set up under pressure from local hotel and crushing-plant owners eager to expand their businesses near the riverbank.
Days before the incident, low water levels led tourists, including a family from Daska, Punjab, to approach the riverbanks near the impromptu dam, unaware of the imminent risk. A sudden surge in water flow later swept away the dam and washed over tourists, who were trapped and spent an hour calling for help before aid arrived. In the chaos, 12 people drowned.
Locals and environmental activists reportedly filed several complaints against such riverbank encroachments, but bureaucratic inertia and threats from the perpetrators silenced them. “They were pacified by influential connections; officials took no action,” said environmental volunteer Haroon Siraj.
An administrative probe also revealed that illegal “crushing” operations—removing sediment from the riverbed—have proliferated from Mingora to Kalam and Atror. Initially occurring at night, these operations now run openly using heavy machinery, extracting soil and selling it for construction at exorbitant rates.
Sources disclosed that several Swat-based Rescue 1122 divers, though officially hired, were found absent during the emergency, instead attending political events. Despite a helicopter being stationed in Swat at the time, lack of coordination and trained personnel delayed response.
A provincial inspection committee, appointed by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur with Khayam Hassan as chair, has already collected statements from six suspended officers—including the deputy commissioner, additional deputy commissioner, two assistant commissioners, district rescue officer, and the field-level town municipal officer (TMO). Their testimonies indicate failure to act, ignoring prior warnings, even as local communities protested.
Records show that it took 19 minutes for Rescue 1122 to respond after the first distress call. Officials have been reprimanded, and sharp criticism was directed at the TMO for disregarding the situation.
The committee also gathered eye-witness testimonies and analyzed social media footage. A detailed report is expected to be submitted by this evening, with a final investigation due within seven days.
Following the tragedy, the government launched a massive removal drive targeting illegal structures—so far dismantling 26 hotels and restaurants. One of the demolished establishments held breakfast just before the tragedy.
According to official statements from district authorities, the operation will continue impartially and without political bias, in accordance with CM Gandapur’s directives, to ensure the safety of Swat’s residents and tourists.
