Anti-encroachment Drive Along Swat River Begins

Mohammad Ali (@ChaudhryMAli88) Published July 25, 2025 | 01:20 PM

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 25th Jul, 2025) A grand anti-encroachment operation has been launched in Bahrain Tehsil along the Swat River following directives from the Peshawar High Court. In the initial phase, around 4.5 kanals of state land were reclaimed.

The operation was conducted on the special instructions of Upper Swat Development Authority Director General Shozeb Abbas and Swat Deputy Commissioner Saleem Jan.

The operation was supervised by Assistant Commissioner Bahrain Junaid Khan and Additional Assistant Commissioner Ahmed Sher. Personnel from various departments, including the Upper Swat Development Authority, TMA Bahrain, Rescue 1122, Irrigation Department, Police, Levies, and Revenue Department, participated in the effort.

According to a spokesperson for the Upper Swat Development Authority, the operation faced public resistance at several points.

Local elders and Member of National Assembly Dr. Amjad intervened, proposing a resolution through mutual understanding. This led to a temporary halt in the operation to allow for discussions through a tribal jirga.

Dr. Amjad assured that the matter would be brought to the attention of Commissioner Malakand, Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the Chief Minister. He emphasized that a sustainable solution would be reached in consultation with all stakeholders .

Deputy Commissioner Saleem Jan reiterated that restoring the natural beauty of the Swat River, ensuring environmental protection, and removing illegal constructions remain top government priorities. They clarified that the operation is being carried out in compliance with court orders and in the public interest, with strict and impartial action to continue against all illegal encroachments.