Initial investigations into the tragic incident that occurred in the Fiza Ghat area of Swat have revealed that a sudden shift in the river’s flow was caused by illegal river diversion activities carried out by land grabbers.
According to sources, crushing mafias and hotel owners had unlawfully constructed an embankment by dumping soil and stones along the riverbank. This embankment collapsed on June 26 due to intense water pressure. At the time of the breach, tourists were gathered near the riverbank, and 17 individuals were swept away by the sudden surge.
Rescue efforts were reportedly delayed. Sources indicate that rescue teams arrived at the scene 19 minutes after the alert was raised, and a government helicopter stationed in Swat was not utilized for emergency response.
The investigation further revealed that illegal constructions and crushing operations along the riverbank had been ongoing for a long time. Despite repeated complaints and warnings from local residents and environmental activists, the district administration failed to take any preventive action.
