Pakistan is once again grappling with the aftermath of a devastating monsoon disaster — this time in Swat, where a flash flood claimed the lives of at least 17 people, including children and young adults, during what was supposed to be a peaceful riverside breakfast near Mingora.
What unfolded within minutes has sparked a nationwide outcry, with disturbing videos of tourists trapped in the surging Swat River circulating on social media. The footage, paired with accounts of delayed rescue efforts, has amplified public frustration over what many are calling a preventable tragedy.
Singer and actor Hadiqa Kiani voiced her anguish and frustration, writing on Instagram: “We need systems that control the impact of rain. We need leadership.” In a follow-up, she questioned the lack of preparedness: “No weather forecast? No warnings? This so-called system failed you.”
Actor Hira Mani expressed deep sorrow, stating, “This is not just a natural disaster. This is a human tragedy ignored.” Her post mourned both the victims and the silence that followed. “Swat needs us… Not tomorrow. Not later. Now,” she urged.
Cricketer Naseem Shah and actors including Yasir Hussain, Zara Noor Abbas, and Dr. Shaista Lodhi also posted emotional tributes and prayers. Actor Yashma Gill, shaken by the tragedy, shared that over 16 members of a single family were affected, with only three survivors. “Watching the video and witnessing their helplessness has really torn my heart,” she wrote.
Authorities have confirmed that the river reached a dangerously high level after two days of rainfall, with a discharge exceeding 77,000 cubic feet per second. A family from Sialkot and Mardan was among the victims. Despite earlier flood warnings by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Section 144, which restricts public access to hazardous areas, was not enforced.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has launched an inquiry and suspended four officials over negligence. Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has also announced compensation for the families of the deceased.
As the search continues for the 10 still missing, the tragedy has reignited demands for effective disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and genuine accountability.
