The Saifullah Lake tragedy investigation has reached a key stage after a high-level inquiry committee completed its fact-finding visit to Kalam valley and returned to Peshawar. The committee is expected to submit its report to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government on Monday, with recommendations on accountability, legal action, and safety reforms.
The inquiry was launched following the fatal boat capsize at Saifullah Lake on July 1 that claimed the lives of members of a single family. The committee’s findings are expected to guide the provincial government’s response and help strengthen safety measures at tourist destinations across the province.
Committee Records Statements and Inspects Accident Site
According to sources, the two-member committee comprised Secretary for Inter-Provincial Coordination Muhammad Ayaz and Additional Secretary Finance Zubair Ahmad.
During their visit to Kalam, the committee inspected the accident site at Saifullah Lake and recorded statements from key officials, including the Deputy Commissioner Swat, District Police Officer (DPO) Swat, District Emergency Officer Rescue 1122, Tehsil Municipal Officer (TMO) Bahrain, Assistant Commissioner Bahrain, officials from relevant departments, representatives of the Boating Association, and other individuals linked to the case.
Sources said the investigation has been completed and the final report has been prepared for submission to the KP government.
Boat Capsize Claimed Seven Family Members
The tragedy occurred on July 1, when a boat carrying former Pakistan Navy officer Muhammad Amir, his three daughters, one son, and two grandsons capsized at Saifullah Lake in Kalam.
Authorities have recovered six bodies, while search operations for Amir’s daughter Bushra continued for the 11th consecutive day.
Preliminary Findings Point to Safety Lapses
Preliminary investigations indicate that the boat operator, Liaqat Ali, has been arrested and charged in connection with the incident.
According to sources, passengers were not provided with life jackets, and mandatory boating safety standard operating procedures (SOPs) were not fully implemented, factors that may have contributed to the accident.
Government Review Expected to Shape Reforms
The district administration is also conducting a separate inquiry into the incident. Provincial authorities are expected to determine further legal and administrative action after reviewing the high-level committee’s report.
Following the tragedy, local residents and tourists have called for unsafe boats to be removed from Saifullah Lake, compulsory use of life jackets for all passengers, and stricter enforcement of boating safety regulations before tourist activities resume.
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