Inquiry into Swat tragedy finds gross negligence by govt bodies

PESHAWAR: A detailed inquiry report into the Swat tragedy – in which 17 tourists, including children and women were swept away by the violent river – has identified critical failures across multiple departments of the provincial government, recommending disciplinary action against negligent officials.

The report was submitted to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur by a three-member committee formed under the headship of the Provincial Inspection Team Chairman, sources claimed on Friday.

According to sources, the 63-page inquiry report holds the district administration, irrigation department, local government, and Rescue 1122 responsible for the incident.

Sources further claimed that the chief minister has approved the inquiry report and has authorized action against the officers and personnel found guilty of negligence.

He has ordered to take legal action against the responsible officials within 60 days.

Sources further state that the inquiry report highlights the lack of coordination among police, revenue officials, irrigation staff, tourism police, and rescue services during the emergency. It also noted that the early warning system for floods was non-functional, causing delays in alerts and evacuation.

The report also recommends that the concerned departments address their shortcomings within 30 days.

It also called for the establishment of an oversight committee headed by the chief secretary to monitor compliance and submit monthly progress reports to the CM Secretariat.

Additionally, the report criticises hotel owners in the affected areas for failing to inform tourists about the risks. It points out regulatory confusion regarding building approvals, encroachment control, and a lack of public awareness protocols.

The report also recommends the procurement of modern equipment to better handle such incidents in the future. This includes integration of river safety modules into the next monsoon contingency plan, expansion of Rescue 1122’s capacity, including training and equipment upgrades, and launch of a public awareness campaign across the province.

It is worth noting that on June 27, a flash flood in the Swat River swept away 17 people. Four were rescued, 12 bodies were recovered, and one body remains missing.