Six tourists killed after boat capsizes in Swat's Saifullah Lake

At least six tourists were killed after a boat carrying members of a single family capsized on Saifullah Lake in Pakistan's northern Swat Valley on Wednesday. Two others, including the boat operator, were rescued, officials said. The family had traveled from Punjab to the scenic town of Kalam for a recreational boat ride when the vessel lost control.

What happened on Saifullah Lake in Swat?

A boat carrying eight people, including the operator, overturned on Saifullah Lake during a recreational ride, throwing everyone into the water. Six people died and two survived, according to Rescue 1122. The tragedy adds to a string of recent boating accidents in Swat Valley's lakes and rivers.

Niaz Khan, media coordinator for Rescue 1122, told Nukta that the family had traveled from Punjab to Kalam when the accident occurred. "Their boat capsized on Saifullah Lake after it went out of control during a recreational ride," Khan said.

How did the rescue operation unfold?

Rescue 1122 Swat's control room received an emergency call at 7:03 p.m., after which rescue teams were immediately dispatched, Khan said. Six bodies were recovered near the Mahodand area, while a female tourist and the boat operator were rescued alive. The rescued woman remains in unstable condition.

Rescue officials said the identities and hometowns of the victims have not yet been confirmed, as all personal belongings were lost in the lake during the accident. The bodies and the injured survivor were transferred to Kalam Hospital. Search teams are continuing efforts to recover personal belongings that could help confirm the victims' identities and hometowns in Punjab.

What has the provincial government said about the tragedy?

The provincial government said Rescue 1122 will transport the victims' bodies to their hometowns once identification procedures are completed. Ambulances and rescue personnel remain on standby, and arrangements for the transfer have been finalized.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi took notice of the accident and ordered authorities to submit a detailed report. He also directed officials to take strict action against those responsible if the investigation finds negligence or misconduct.