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PESHAWAR, Jun 28 (APP):Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Shahab Ali Shah on Saturday said that a formal investigation into the recent Swat incident has initiated and those responsible for negligence would be penalized.
Chairing a meeting, Shahab Ali Shah also outlined several crucial measures to address aftermath of floods and prevent future tragedies.
He stated that a ban had been imposed on all forms of mining in riverbeds and authorities were set to take strict action against all types of encroachments, including hotels built within riverbeds.
An effective operation to clear encroachments on and along riverbanks will commence tomorrow.
Chief Secretary further announced that ADC Relief office will be designated as a response center, where officials from all relevant departments will be stationed.
To bolster rescue efforts, he said teams are being equipped with modern tools such as drones, life-saving jackets, and other essential gear. Drones will be used to locate stranded individuals and facilitate their rescue.
Plans are also underway to review and improve irrigation early warning system. For effective monitoring of all rivers in Malakand division, rescue, police, and administrative personnel will be deployed for patrols. These teams will also be responsible for keeping public away from dangerous river areas, he said.
The CS urged the print, electronic and social media outlets to actively inform tourists and citizens about flood situation in rivers.
The meeting concluded with prayers for the victims of the Swat River tragedy. Rescue teams were also directed to intensify efforts to locate the three individuals who are still missing.