District administration Swat on Wednesday imposed a ban under section 144 on the movement of people and vehicles, fishing, bathing, walking, and recreational activities, as well as gathering near rivers, canals, and collecting or extracting sleepers and wood from the Swat River after recent tragic incident which has claimed 17 lives of tourists.
According to a statement issued by the Swat district administration, movement of people and vehicles, fishing, bathing, walking, and recreational activities, as well as gathering near rivers, canals, and collecting or extracting sleepers and wood from the Swat River, have been prohibited under Section 144. District Magistrate Saleem Jan of Swat has enacted this ban due to continuous heavy rains and increased water discharge from upstream sources, resulting in significantly elevated water levels in the Swat River. The river is currently flowing near or above the danger mark, which poses serious risks to public life and property in adjacent areas. There is a clear risk of flooding and riverbank erosion, and the sudden rise in water levels can endanger lives, especially those who approach the riverbanks for fishing, recreation, or travel.
This situation can impede rescue and relief operations, making it essential to enforce Section 144, which will remain in effect for two months. Individuals who violate this order will face legal action under Section 188.
