Swat administration acts after tourists stopped on way to Mahodand Lake

Authorities in Swat district have launched legal proceedings after an incident in which tourists were allegedly stopped from travelling towards Mahodand Lake in the Kalam valley, raising concerns about visitor safety in one of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s most popular tourist destinations.

According to officials, a group of local individuals intercepted tourist vehicles, including private coasters and vans carrying visitors from different parts of the country, as they were en route to Mahodand Lake. The individuals allegedly insisted that tourists use locally operated transport services instead of their own arrangements.

The situation reportedly escalated into a confrontation that disrupted travel plans. Some tourists said they were threatened with stone pelting, forcing several groups, including students from Sargodha University in Punjab, to abandon their journey before reaching the lake.

Following the incident, Deputy Commissioner Swat Saleem Jan Marwat directed the district administration, in coordination with District Police Officer Umar Gandapur, to take immediate action. An First Information Report (FIR) has been registered at Kalam Police Station against around 30 individuals under relevant legal provisions.

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Officials said the accused are being investigated for allegedly blocking tourist movement, causing harassment, and creating a climate of fear among visitors.

The district administration stated that ensuring the safety and protection of tourists remains a top priority for the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Authorities emphasised that Swat is a key tourism hub and such incidents could damage the region’s reputation and economy if not addressed firmly.

Mahodand Lake, located in the upper reaches of Kalam Valley, is considered one of the most scenic tourist spots in northern Pakistan, attracting thousands of domestic visitors during peak travel seasons.

Officials have assured that strict legal action will be taken against those found responsible to prevent recurrence of such incidents and to maintain a safe environment for tourism in the region.