SWAT: Heavy rains, hailstorms and strong winds caused widespread disruption across Swat District, inundating roads, homes and public places. In the Saidu Sharif area, a protective embankment along a drainage channel collapsed after being overwhelmed by floodwater, allowing water to enter the historic Saidu Baba Mosque and Shrine. Several graves within the shrine’s premises were also submerged.

Local residents blamed the situation on poor drainage infrastructure and the blockage of natural water channels in various areas, which diverted rainwater toward residential neighborhoods.

Following reports of the incident, Rescue 1122 Swat’s Disaster Response Team, acting on the directives of District Emergency Officer Syed Shoaib Mansoor, reached the site and launched operations to remove water and mud from the mosque and shrine.

The intense rainfall also turned roads in Mingora, Saidu Sharif and surrounding areas into large pools of standing water. Flooding entered several houses and shops in low-lying localities, causing difficulties for residents and traders. Traffic movement on major roads and link routes was severely affected due to water accumulation. Reports also indicated that hailstorms damaged standing crops, orchards and vegetable fields in different parts of the district.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast further rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across Swat and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa until June 20. Authorities have warned of possible landslides in mountainous regions, flash flooding in local streams and urban flooding in low-lying areas.

Rescue 1122, the district administration and other relevant departments have been placed on high alert, with emergency teams deployed at various locations to respond to any untoward situation. Citizens have been advised to avoid riverbanks, streams and flood channels and to immediately contact Rescue 1122 in case of an emergency.

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