Gandapur Orders Probe into Swat River Tragedy

Gandapur Orders Probe into Swat River Tragedy

PESHAWAR, July 4, 2025 – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has launched a high-level investigation into the Swat River tragedy, in which at least 32 people—many of them tourists—lost their lives after sudden flash floods swept through the region late last month.

📌 The Incident

Between June 26–29, torrential pre‑monsoon rains triggered violent flash flooding across northern KP. The Swat River, swelling dangerously fast, engulfed riverside spots where tourists and locals were picnicking. Video footage circulating on X and other social media platforms showed groups of people, including women and children, stranded on small river islands, crying for help and pleading for rescue—yet no boats or helicopters arrived in time. Tragically, some families waited over an hour before being swept away  .

Provincial disaster officials confirm at least 32 fatalities—19 in KP (13 in Swat Valley alone) and the rest across Punjab and neighboring provinces. Several dozen are still reported missing  .

🛑 Administrative Response: Suspensions & Inquiry

Within hours of the incident, CM Gandapur took decisive administrative action. His office suspended four senior officials: the Swat Additional Deputy Commissioner (Relief), the Assistant Commissioners of Babuzai and Khwazakhela, and the district in‑charge of Rescue 1122, in light of their delayed or inadequate response  .

Additionally, the government mobilised the Chief Minister’s Inspection Team (CMIT) to conduct a thorough investigation. The probe will scrutinise emergency response systems, departmental coordination, flood warnings, enforcement of section 144, and encroachment regulations. The CM has warned that further suspensions and legal action will follow if negligence is confirmed  .

💰 Relief, Compensation & Corrective Measures

The KP government announced compensation of PKR 1.5 million to each bereaved family. It also ordered the demolition of all illegal constructions along the riverbanks, particularly encroaching cafes, hotels, and charpoy platforms set up by riverside establishments—some allegedly built by politically influential persons  .

Daily patrolling, physical barriers, and a province-wide ban on recreational river activities have been enforced. Hoteliers and local authorities have been tasked with submitting NOCs and clearing unauthorized setups. The Irrigation Department has been instructed to maintain river flow and inspect bank stability  .

⚖️ Governor & Judiciary Join Push for Accountability

KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi expressed dismay over the response. Labeling the failure “a shameful collapse of responsibility,” he demanded Gandapur’s immediate resignation, holding him accountable in both his executive and tourism ministry roles  . Nationally, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif deployed NDMA and local authorities to intensify search-and-rescue efforts and ensure early warnings in flood-prone zones  .

On July 3, the Peshawar High Court summonded several divisional commissioners and senior officials, including disaster management, police, and rescue authorities, to justify why drones and river‑safety protocols weren't implemented. Justice SM Atiq Shah described the incident as "administrative failure," ordering a detailed status report  .

🗣️ Public Outcry & Broader Concerns

Public anger is growing. Social media is filled with frustration at the lack of rescue boats, helicopters, and timely alerts. Many critics question the clarity of responsibility among local ADR, police, and rescue services  .

This tragedy highlights the vulnerability of Pakistan’s mountainous regions to climate-driven flash floods. Despite advance weather advisories—including warnings about glacial surges and resident travel bans under section 144—enforcement was lax, particularly in tourist-heavy zones  . Environmental advocacy groups are urging stronger regulations preventing construction in high-risk river corridors—warnings historically ignored.

📅 What Comes Next

CMIT Inquiry: Findings due within one week, per Gandapur.

Judicial Oversight: PHC to receive official responses from administrative heads.

Policy Revisions: Anticipated updated flood protocols, improved public alert systems, and fortified emergency infrastructure (boats, choppers, drones).

Political Fallout: Calls for the Chief Minister’s resignation remain active; further criticism and pressure are expected.

---

Analysis:

CM Gandapur’s swift action shows intent to address departmental negligence. Yet, the public reaction, governor’s resignation demand, and judicial intervention highlight the gravity of the failure. The pending inquiry and court oversight will be instrumental in shaping future disaster policies across KP.