SWAT: Authorities in Swat have launched legal action after a group of local individuals allegedly stopped tourists from travelling to Mahodand Lake, triggering public outrage and concerns over tourist safety in one of Pakistan’s most popular tourist destinations.
The incident, which later went viral on social media, reportedly occurred when tourists travelling in private coasters and tour vehicles towards Mahodand Lake in Kalam were intercepted by local individuals who allegedly insisted that visitors use local transport services instead of private vehicles.
According to officials, the confrontation disrupted the tourists’ journey, while some groups were allegedly threatened with stone pelting if they continued travelling independently. As a result, several tourists were forced to abandon their visit to the scenic lake.
Among the affected visitors were students from University of Sargodha, who were unable to complete their planned tour to Mahodand Lake, one of the most visited attractions in Swat Valley.
Following the circulation of videos and complaints online, Saleem Jan Marwat took immediate notice of the incident and directed the district administration to coordinate with police authorities for legal action against those responsible.
In coordination with Umar Gandapur, police registered a First Information Report (FIR) at Kalam Police Station against around 30 individuals under relevant legal provisions for allegedly blocking tourists, creating fear, and disrupting public order.
In an official statement, the district administration stressed that ensuring the safety and protection of tourists remained a top priority for the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“The protection of tourists is the top priority of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government. No individual or group will be allowed to take the law into their own hands, harass tourists or obstruct their movement,” the statement said.
Authorities further clarified that there were no official restrictions on tourist movement in Kalam, Mahodand Lake, or any other tourist destinations in Swat. Visitors remain free to travel using private vehicles or transport operators of their own choice.
Officials emphasised that no local group or individual has the legal authority to stop tourists or force them to use specific transport services.
DPO Umar Gandapur said police responded promptly after the matter surfaced online and assured the public that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found responsible for intimidating tourists or damaging the region’s reputation.
“We are committed to ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for tourists in Swat. The law will take its course against anyone found intimidating visitors or damaging the image of the region,” he stated.
Deputy Commissioner Saleem Jan Marwat also urged tourists and local residents to immediately report any similar incidents to the administration or police so that swift action could be taken.
The incident sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many users warning that such behaviour could seriously harm tourism in Swat, which remains one of Pakistan’s leading tourist destinations known for its lakes, mountains, forests, and scenic valleys.
Despite the controversy, local authorities said coordinated efforts were underway to restore tourist confidence and ensure that visitors continue to travel safely throughout the region.
