At least 11 killed as flash floods sweep Swat
A rescue worker rows a raft while searching for survivors, after tourists, who were on a picnic, were swept away by overflowing floodwaters in the Swat River, in Swat Valley in Pakistan June 27, 2025. Photo: Reuters
At least 11 people lost their lives and six others were injured after torrential rains triggered flash floods in Swat and other parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said on Friday.
According to a preliminary report issued by the PDMA, flooding in the Swat River near Khwazakhela damaged homes and infrastructure across several areas, with Swat identified as the worst-affected district, accounting for 10 of the reported fatalities.
“The deceased include four men, three women, and four children, while the injured comprise three men and three women,” the statement added.
The PDMA said its Emergency Operations Center had been activated and was coordinating efforts with local administrations, rescue services, and other relevant departments to manage the ongoing emergency.
Flood alerts have also been issued to district administrations in Nowshera and Charsadda, with directives to implement preemptive safety measures in anticipation of further rainfall.
Residents gather, after tourists, who were on a picnic, were swept away by overflowing floodwaters in the Swat River, in Swat Valley in Pakistan June 27, 2025. Photo: Reuters
As part of its monsoon contingency plan, the PDMA said it had dispatched 136 trucks carrying non-food relief items to the affected districts. These include tents, tarpaulins, kitchen sets, blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags.
In addition, the authority said Rs450 million had been disbursed to local governments to meet immediate relief and compensation needs.
وزیراعلیٰ خیبر پختونخوا علی امین گنڈاپور کی ہدایت پر فلڈ سیل قائم کردیا گیا، سیلاب یا ہنگامی صورتحال کی اطلاع یا معلومات کے لیے 00923409418852، 1177, نمبرز پر فوری رابطہ کریں۔ مون سون کے دوران ندی نالوں، دریاؤں اور نشیبی علاقوں سے دور رہیں۔#KPFloodUpdates pic.twitter.com/XvhIj9vvHz
In response to the disaster, the chief minister has announced compensation for the families of the deceased victims. A committee has been formed to investigate the incident, and the provincial government is closely monitoring the situation as rescue operations continue.
Earlier this week, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) had warned of heavy rains and potential flash flooding in various parts of the country from June 26 to 28. Residents in vulnerable areas, particularly those near nullahs, low-lying zones, and hilly slopes, were advised to remain alert and avoid unnecessary movement.
Emergency services were also instructed to remain on high alert to respond promptly to any incidents.
K-P govt suspends ADC, three others
Meanwhile, the K-P government suspended four officials, including the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Swat, following the tragic drowning of tourists in Swat.
According to a notification issued by the Establishment Department, the suspensions were made on the directives of CM Ali Amin Gandapur.
The officials suspended include Swat Additional Deputy Commissioner Ehsanul Haq, Assistant Commissioner Babuzai, Assistant Commissioner Khwazakhela, and District Emergency Officer of Rescue 1122, Saad Khan.
Assistant Commissioner Babuzai was suspended for a delayed response, while the Assistant Commissioner of Khwazakhela was removed for failing to issue timely warnings.
The Additional Deputy Commissioner (Relief) was suspended for not taking preventive measures, and the district in-charge of Rescue 1122 was also relieved of duty.
The provincial government has also constituted a two-member inquiry committee, headed by Provincial Inspection Team Chairman Khayam Hassan Khan. The committee has been directed to submit its findings within seven days.
Speaking on the matter, provincial advisor Barrister Saif said the action against the officials was taken on the chief minister’s orders in light of the incident. He added that a formal inquiry has been launched under the Provincial Inspection Team to determine individual responsibility.
He noted that further disciplinary action may be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.