Swat river tragedy: Death toll rises to 12 as child’s body recovered in Charsadda

(Web Desk): The death toll from the Swat River tragedy has risen to 12 after the body of a missing child was recovered in Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to Rescue 1122 Swat, the child had been swept away by floodwaters and was found downstream. The body has been shifted to a hospital for medico-legal formalities before being transported to the family's native town, Mardan.

The tragic incident occurred on Friday when 17 members of a Sialkot-based family, on a picnic near the Swat River, were caught in a sudden and powerful surge of water. Despite facing tough conditions, rescue teams responded swiftly.

Search operations remain ongoing for one individual still missing. Director General of Rescue 1122 confirmed that the operation has been extended across Khwazakhela, Kabal Bypass, and Barikot. Over 120 rescue personnel from Swat, Malakand, and Shangla have been deployed, using boats and specialized equipment to search the riverbanks and deeper water channels.

In the aftermath, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced a major crackdown on illegal structures along the Swat River. Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah stated that all forms of mining along riverbeds have been banned, and a coordinated campaign will target all encroachments, including illegally constructed hotels and buildings along riverbanks.