MINGORA, SWAT – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah has admitted to critical rescue operation failures after a devastating flash flood in the Swat River claimed the lives of at least ten tourists, mostly from Punjab, triggering nationwide grief and outrage.

Speaking to the media near the flood-hit area along the Swat Bypass, Shahab Shah confirmed “serious shortcomings” in the emergency response, revealing that officials had a 45-minute window to evacuate the area but failed due to mismanagement. “A small mistake turned into a major tragedy,” he stated. The district in-charge of Rescue 1122 has already been suspended, and a full inquiry is underway.

The powerful flash flood struck without warning on Friday morning as several families, including tourists from Daska, Punjab, were enjoying breakfast on a dry patch beside the Swat River. The sudden water surge, caused by glacial melt and monsoon rainfall, swept away more than a dozen people.

Out of 70 initially stranded, 55 were rescued on the first day. Rescue teams later confirmed the recovery of 10 bodies, with three individuals still missing as operations continue into the second day.

Rescue 1122 spokesperson Bilal Faizi explained that rough terrain and a strong current made boat rescues impossible. Helicopter deployment was also delayed due to logistical constraints. “The rocky riverbed and sharp stones posed extreme risks,” he noted.

Two additional bodies were later found near Barikot, downstream from the main incident site. All recovered victims have been transported to their home towns with the support of local authorities.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced financial compensation of Rs1.5 million for each victim’s family, with officials promising strict accountability for any lapses.

Experts warn that climate change is accelerating the frequency and intensity of such flash floods in Pakistan’s northern regions. Rising temperatures and rapid glacial melt are directly contributing to unpredictable river surges, placing local populations and tourists at heightened risk.

An official inquiry report is expected to be submitted to the Chief Minister within seven days. Authorities have urged tourists to remain cautious around riverbanks and to heed weather advisories to avoid further tragedies.