SWAT: A large-scale anti-encroachment operation is underway in Swat for the second consecutive day, following directives from the Chief Secretary. The campaign is being led jointly by officials from the district administration, police, irrigation department, and Rescue 1122.
According to the district administration, the operation resumed early this morning at 7:00 AM, starting from the bypass area. The authorities plan to clear 49 illegally occupied spots up to Fizagat along the riverbanks.
The administration emphasised that the removal of illegal structures along the Swat River is a top priority. Elite Force units have been deployed at key locations to prevent any resistance or untoward incidents. The authorities have made it clear that no one is above the law, and the campaign will continue without discrimination or interruption.
Yesterday, however, the operation sparked protests from local hotel owners. Tensions escalated, leading to stone-pelting incidents in which several police personnel were injured. Three individuals were arrested, and the Fizagat Bypass Road remained closed to traffic for three hours due to unrest.
Simultaneously, efforts to enforce tourist safety are intensifying in upper Swat. Assistant Commissioner of Bahrain, Junaid Aftab, visited Mahodand Lake and Shahi Bagh today to ensure compliance with boating safety protocols.
According to officials, no boating activity is allowed without proper clearance, such as a No Objection Certificate (NOC), life jackets, and other mandatory safety equipment. Police personnel have been deployed to both locations for on-site enforcement. During today’s inspection, over 400 tourists were prevented from boating due to failure to meet safety requirements. In the past five days alone, 40 FIRs have been registered under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code for violations at Mahodand Lake.
At Shahi Bagh, all boats were found operating without NOCs, prompting the authorities to impose a complete ban on boating activities in the area. The district administration reaffirmed that protecting tourist lives and enforcing the law are top priorities. Authorities warned of strict legal action against any future violations.
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