Ismail Khan, the traffic in-charge of Tehsil Brikot, stationed at Landa, Swat Gateway, told TNN that over 300,000 tourists visited Swat during the Eid holidays. Contrary to fears that the Madyan tragedy would deter visitors, both domestic and foreign tourists continued to flock to Swat in large numbers.
Ismail highlighted that Swat is synonymous with sightseeing, with 99% of tourists drawn to its picturesque Kalam Valley, Mahodand, Madyan, and Shahi Bagh, known for its high mountains, lush green valleys, and dense forests. These areas remain popular camping spots.
He acknowledged the unfortunate Madyan incident but assured that the rest of Swat remains peaceful and orderly. Tourists are exploring the area without fear, and the police are diligently performing their duties to ensure security.
Ismail also noted the ongoing heatwave across the country, which drives tourists to camp in Swat's cool spots until August 15th. He observed an increase in tourist numbers this year compared to last year, based on his observations at the Swat Gateway. In response to inquiries, he stated that no tourists had asked him about the Madyan incident.
He conveyed a reassuring message to tourists, emphasizing that Swat is a peaceful region with hospitable and loving people. He assured that tourists can visit without any fear, as the police are on alert 24/7.
Also Read: Gas Leak Explosion in Peshawar Guest House Injures 11, Two Critically
Former district Nazim of Swat and ex-caretaker minister Muhammad Ali Shah acknowledged that incidents like the Madyan tragedy inevitably have adverse effects. However, he highlighted that despite this, hundreds of thousands of tourists visited Swat during Eid and returned safely. He dismissed the notion of a conspiracy against Swat's tourism, emphasizing that local involvement in the incident does not imply a wider plot.
Shah argued that just as places like Murree attract vast numbers of tourists without conspiracy, Swat's tourism boom is not the result of any hidden agendas. He stressed the importance of maintaining a peaceful and welcoming environment, much like Hunza, to attract visitors.
He added that tourism thrives where natural beauty and law and order coexist. Despite the Madyan incident, Swat remains a preferred destination for tourists seeking peace and safety.
Swat Police spokesperson reported significant progress in the Madyan incident investigation, with 30 people, including the main suspects Yasir, Ghufran, and Qari Inam-ur-Rehman, arrested and presented in the anti-terrorism court. Efforts to apprehend other suspects continue, with police obtaining crucial videos and CCTV footage to aid in the investigation.
Additionally, more than fifty individuals are currently in custody, with various agencies involved in the case. Recently, Maulana Muhammad Naurani, general secretary of Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan Malakand division, criticized the administration's handling of the incident and called for avoiding further provocation by arresting innocent people.
On June 20, a blasphemy incident in Madyan led to a tragic killing and subsequent unrest. An FIR was filed against the involved individuals, with 49 known and up to 25,000 unknown suspects named. Police sources indicated that the investigation might extend, potentially including provisions for desecration of the dead body once completed.
