Family holiday turns fatal: Over two dozen tourists swept away in Pakistan river flood (VIDEO)
Nine bodies recovered as search intensifies for missing family members
ISLAMABAD: A family picnic turned tragic in Pakistan's scenic Swat Valley on Friday, as a sudden flash flood swept away more than two dozen people, including women and children, near the riverbank.
The group, hailing from Punjab’s Sialkot city, was having breakfast when the Swat River, swollen by heavy monsoon rainfall upstream, surged without warning.
According to district administration, children from the family were in the water taking photos when the deluge struck. As relatives tried to rescue them, they too were dragged into the fast-flowing river.
Rescue challenges
Nine bodies, including those of two children, have been recovered so far. At least four people were rescued alive, while four others remain missing. More than 80 rescue personnel, along with local volunteers, are combing the area despite challenging conditions. Deputy Commissioner Swat confirmed that at least 73 people were trapped by floodwaters across different areas, with 55 safely evacuated so far.
The tragic drowning of several people in the River Swat is NOT the result of a random "natural disaster".
— SenatorSherryRehman (@sherryrehman) June 27, 2025
70 people were trapped in 7 different locations. 6 dead bodies have been recovered. 52 people have been rescued. So far.
We need to UNDERSTAND that this and other disasters… pic.twitter.com/PVh9GpQrql
Eyewitnesses allege that emergency teams arrived too late to save those struggling in the water, with some victims reportedly stranded for nearly two hours. A widely circulated video shows women and children caught in the river, surrounded by panicked cries for help.
Warnings ignored
Authorities confirmed that Section 144 – which bans public access to rivers – was in effect. Despite repeated advisories, many tourists reportedly disregarded safety warnings.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari both expressed their condolences and directed relevant agencies to strengthen enforcement of safety measures. KP’s Chief Secretary has suspended three district officials in connection with the incident, citing failure to act promptly.
Every summer, tens of thousands of tourists from across Pakistan visit the mountainous north, including Swat Valley, to enjoy its rivers, peaks, and glaciers – often unaware of the deadly risks that come with unpredictable weather.