SYED SHAHABUDDIN
In the aftermath of the tragic Swat River incident, local authorities resumed the second phase of a major anti-encroachment operation following a one-day pause.
Several illegal structures along the riverbanks have been demolished. However, the hotel belonging to Federal Minister Engineer Amir Muqam was declared legal after official measurement and review.
According to administrative officials, while over 100,000 square feet of the hotel’s open courtyard area was marked as part of the river’s designated boundaries, the hotel building itself was found to be outside the encroached zone. Clear boundary lines were drawn on-site to mark the demarcation.
The operation near Amir Muqam’s hotel faced delays for the second time, raising eyebrows in public circles. Speaking to media, Amir Muqam’s nephew, Farhad Khan, stated, “All legal documents are in place. The hotel structure is not within the river limits, and we have approval from relevant authorities.”
Despite this clarification, public criticism has mounted, with citizens questioning why construction was allowed in the first place if the structures are now being deemed illegal.
They also demanded accountability from the authorities who approved such projects.
Meanwhile, the search continues for 14-year-old Abdullah, a tourist from Daska, who was swept away by strong river currents nearly a week ago.
This marks the sixth consecutive day of the search operation, led by Rescue 1122 teams with the assistance of local divers and advanced equipment.
Rescue officials affirmed, “The operation will continue until the boy’s body is recovered. We are doing everything possible to support the grieving family.”
The incident has reignited public concerns about unregulated riverfront development and the lack of early warning systems during peak tourist seasons. Civil society groups have urged the government to implement long-term safety and zoning regulations to prevent future tragedies.
