Authorities say coordinated measures are being taken to protect tourism activities and restore visitor confidence
CRUSH:
The district administration and Swat police launched legal action on Monday after a group of local individuals allegedly stopped tourists from visiting Mahodand Lake in Kalam, an incident which later went viral on social media and raised concerns over the safety of tourists in the major tourist destination of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
According to authorities, tourists traveling in private roller coasters and tourist vehicles heading to Mahodand Lake were intercepted by local people who allegedly insisted that visitors use local transportation services instead. The clashes disrupted tourists’ travel, while some vehicles were reportedly threatened with stone throwing, forcing several groups to abandon their visit to the lake.
The affected tourists, including students of Sargodha University, were unable to complete their trip at Mahodand Lake, one of the most visited tourist attractions in Swat.
Taking immediate notice of the incident, Swat Deputy Commissioner (DC) Saleem Jan Marwat directed the district administration, in coordination with District Police Officer (DPO) Umar Gandapur, to initiate legal action against those involved.
A case has been registered at Kalam police station against around 30 people under relevant sections of the law for allegedly blocking tourists and creating fear and harassment.
“Protection of tourists is the top priority of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government. No individual or group will be allowed to take law into their own hands, harass tourists or obstruct their movement,” the district administration said in an official statement.
The administration clarified that no restrictions were imposed on tourist movements in Kalam, Mahodand Lake or other tourist destinations in Swat. Tourists were free to travel in their private vehicles or with transport operators of their choice, without anyone having the power to arrest them illegally.
DPO Gandapur said the police acted promptly after the incident surfaced and assured that strict action would be taken against those involved.
“We are committed to ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for tourists in Swat. The law will take its course against anyone intimidating visitors or damaging the image of the region,” he said.
DC Marwat also urged tourists and residents to immediately report any untoward incident to the administration or police so that prompt action can be ensured.
The incident sparked widespread criticism online, with social media users expressing concern that such actions could negatively impact tourism in Swat.
However, authorities said coordinated measures were being taken to protect tourism activities and restore visitor confidence in the region.
