Tragic Swat Incident a Result of Government Negligence: Khurram Nawaz Gandapur

Khurram Nawaz Gandapur, Secretary General of Pakistan Awami Tehreek, has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the tragic incident in Swat where several individuals were swept away by the river. He described the incident as an unbearable national tragedy, citing it as clear evidence of incompetence, negligence, and mismanagement.

He stated that the Swat tragedy is not only a loss of precious human lives but also a test for the state and society, demanding decisive action and moral accountability. The loss of lives in this manner is not just a tragedy but criminal negligence, and mere statements or condolences are insufficient — those responsible must be brought to justice.

Khurram Nawaz Gandapur emphasized that the Swat disaster has not only taken lives but also inflicted heavy damage on local tourism. The incident has spread fear and panic among domestic and international tourists. Local hotel businesses, transporters, and commercial stakeholders are now facing economic hardship. Viral footage on social media has damaged the tourist reputation of Swat and other northern areas.

The PAT Secretary General said that due to the government's inattention and administrative shortcomings, Pakistan's tourism is gaining a negative reputation internationally. It is the government's primary responsibility to relocate the public to safe zones in time, restrict entry into dangerous areas, and establish an effective emergency response system — a responsibility that continues to be neglected.

He further said that clear administrative instructions, proper investigations, and future preventive measures could significantly reduce the likelihood of such tragedies. Training for rescue operations, improved warning systems, and increased public awareness are essential.

Khurram Gandapur pointed out that despite frequent incidents of heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides over the past several years, no government has developed a comprehensive policy. No emergency planning has been undertaken, nor has an effective system of trained rescue teams been established at the grassroots level.

He demanded a high-level investigation into the Swat tragedy and accountability from the concerned district and provincial officers to ensure that such criminal negligence is not repeated in the future. He stressed that Pakistan Awami Tehreek does not stop at offering condolences but continually reminds institutions of their constitutional and humanitarian responsibilities.

The PAT leader called for the national disaster management policy to be restructured, for local governments to be empowered, for public awareness campaigns to be launched at school and college levels, and for a clear and effective early evacuation system to be implemented for people living near rivers.

Khurram Nawaz Gandapur concluded by saying that as long as the government limits itself to statements and photo-ops, such tragedies will continue to occur. Expressing heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the affected families, he affirmed that Pakistan Awami Tehreek stands with the bereaved in this hour of grief.