18 members of the same family from Sialkot drowned in the Swat River near Mingora Bypass. According to rescue officials, the family was sitting by the river for breakfast during their visit to Swat when a sudden surge in water flow swept them away.
Rescue 1122 teams confirmed that 3 people rescued alive, while 5 bodies recovered so far. The search operation continues for the remaining missing persons. The incident occurred at around 8 AM when the tourists, unaware of the water surge, caught by the sudden flow caused by upstream rain.
Officials stated that Section 144 is enforced in Swat to restrict people from bathing or approaching the river, but tourists continue to visit these areas. The Deputy Commissioner Swat said that action would be taken to prevent such incidents.
A family member of the victims told media that 10 members of their group were swept away, including children who had gone near the river for photos. One woman’s body has been recovered; the search for 9 children is ongoing. The tourist alleged rescue teams reached after one and a half to two hours and could not save the drowning children.
Authorities have urged tourists to follow safety instructions and stay away from riverbanks.
