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Swat District Administration Enforces Ban on River Activities to Ensure Safety

In response to a TNN report, the district administration of Swat has taken decisive action to enhance public safety by posting regular patrols along the banks of the Swat River.
By Rafiullah Khan - 06 Jul, 2024 889
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In response to a TNN report, the district administration of Swat has taken decisive action to enhance public safety by posting regular patrols along the banks of the Swat River. This initiative effectively prohibits locals and tourists from engaging in activities such as bathing, swimming, and boating, thereby safeguarding lives.

Recently, TNN highlighted the issue that despite the ban imposed under Section 144, people continued to drown in the Swat River, with Rescue 1122 often tasked with recovering bodies. In the past ten days alone, seven individuals lost their lives to the treacherous currents of the Swat River.

Assistant Commissioner Babuzai Muhammad Jawad Asif led an operation against individuals bathing in the Swat River near the Fizagat Bypass. The district administration has now enforced a complete ban on bathing in the river under Section 144 of the Penal Code. During this operation, three individuals were arrested for violating the ban and will face legal action.

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Noman Khan, a resident of Mingora, informed TNN that with the temperatures in Mingora soaring between 38 to 43 degrees Celsius, people used to cool off in the Swat River. However, the new ban has posed challenges for them. He suggested that the district administration should identify safe spots along the river where people can safely enjoy the water without the risk of drowning. This would benefit both locals and tourists from warmer parts of the country.

Noman emphasized that a blanket ban is not a long-term solution. Given Swat's status as a tourist destination, proper planning is essential to ensure safety while maintaining the area's appeal. He urged the administration to consider strategies that balance public safety with tourism.

Assistant Commissioner Babuzai Muhammad Jawad Asif explained to TNN that the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a flood warning. Recent observations indicated a rapid flow in the Swat River, posing a significant risk to lives. Flash floods can occur unpredictably, making it difficult to designate safe spots along the river.

He noted that while families with small children were issued warnings and released, three individuals were arrested for flouting the Section 144 order. He appealed to parents to cooperate with the authorities by strictly forbidding their children from approaching or bathing in the river to prevent potential tragedies.

During June, July, and August, large amounts of melted snow from the mountains of Kalam, Bahrain, Madin, and other areas flow into the Swat River. This increased water volume can lead to the river's rapid flow and occasional flooding.

This proactive approach by the Swat district administration aims to mitigate the risk of drownings and ensure the safety of both residents and tourists.