Anti-encroachment drive along Swat River launched

MINGORA: The district administration has launched a comprehensive anti-encroachment operation along the banks of the Swat River, particularly around the Fizagat Bypass area, in an effort to restore the river’s natural flow and reclaim public land from illegal occupation.

The operation, which began earlier this week, targets unauthorised constructions, including shops, restaurants and other permanent structures that have been built illegally on or near the riverbanks. These structures were demolished using heavy machinery under the supervision of district officials. The operation is being carried out in collaboration with the local police, irrigation department, tehsil administration and other relevant government agencies.

According to Deputy Commissioner Shehzad Mehboob, the initiative was aimed at protecting the environment, preventing obstruction of natural waterways, and ensuring that public spaces remain accessible to the community. “This operation will be carried out without discrimination,” he said, adding, “We are committed to removing all encroachments across Swat district, regardless of who is involved.”

He maintained that notices had already been issued to violators, giving them a three-day deadline to voluntarily remove their illegal structures. “If they fail to comply, we will take strict legal action, and all consequences will fall on the encroachers themselves,” Mehboob warned.

The illegal occupation of land along the Swat River has long been a concern, with environmentalists warning that unchecked encroachments could lead to urban flooding, environmental degradation, and disruption of the river’s ecosystem. The local residents have also expressed support for the move, hoping it will lead to better infrastructure and preservation of Swat’s natural beauty.

The officials confirmed that similar operations would be conducted throughout the valley in the coming weeks as part of a broader strategy to enforce land use regulations and protect natural resources.