SWAT: In response to increasing risks posed by floods, social activists in Swat have initiated emergency relief services along the Swat River.

These services, launched on a self-help basis, are meant to provide immediate relief to people affected by floods and other incidents in the area.

Under the banner of Mehr Foundation, a group of youth established several well-equipped camps along the river. The relief camps were officially inaugurated the other day by Fayaz Zafar, who was accompanied by other activists including Mohammad Hilal, Mohammad Alam, Abid Ali Jan, Azizulhaq, Ifthikhar, and Qazi Fazal Wahab.

The initiative has mobilised more than 500 volunteers including trained divers, swimmers, first aid providers and rescue workers. They have stocked hundreds of lifejackets, locally-made boats (Jalla) and other essential equipment for rescue operations.

Mock exercise conducted to educate people on rescue techniques during flood

The initiative was launched in response to the tragic flood incident on June 27, when rising water claimed the lives of 13 tourists. “The June 27 incident was one of the saddest moments in our lives. We realised that government institutions were unable to handle such emergencies. It prompted us to establish a comprehensive rescue and relief service to prevent future tragedies,” said Mohammad Alam, a social worker associated with Mehr Foundation.

The project has also received significant support from renowned diver and rescuer Mohammad Hilal, who has saved hundreds of lives in the Swat River. “I am proud to be a part of this lifesaving effort. I will be available around the clock to assist in rescue activities,” he said.

The initiative is largely supported by local communities, who have generously contributed by donating necessary resources for lifesaving equipment such as life jackets, boats and other essential supplies. “The people of Swat have united to establish this permanent emergency relief service along the river,” said Azizul Haq, a local volunteer.

The volunteers of Mehr Foundation along with Rescue 1122 workers also conducted a demonstration to show how to rescue people trapped in the river. The demonstration was aimed at educating people on effective rescue techniques during emergencies.

KILLED: One person was killed and 15 others received injuries in two separate accidents in here on Monday.

According to Rescue 1122, a three-wheeler plunged into a deep ravine owing to brake failure. The driver, 28-year-old Salman, was killed on the spot while four others sustained injuries. The injured were identified as Zubair, Nouman, Mane and Islam.

In the second incident, a Suzuki vehicle crashed near Kedam police checkpost in Bahrain, injuring 11 seminary students. All the injured children belong to Kalam. They were identified as Shamsul Salam, Abu Bakr, Abu Zar, Akhtar Afzal, Yusuf, Mohammad Afzal, Jawad, Mahmood, Gohar Hamid, Yasir and Iftikhar.

They injured were shifted to nearby hospitals. Doctors referred of the injured students to Civil Hospital in Madyan.

Published in Dawn, July 8th, 2025