FIR lodged after tourists were stopped from visiting Mahodand Lake in Swat

SWAT: Authorities in Swat have initiated legal action after a group of local individuals allegedly prevented tourists from travelling to Mahodand Lake in Kalam, an incident that drew widespread attention on social media and raised concerns about visitor safety in one of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s leading tourist destinations.

Officials said tourists travelling in private coasters and tour vehicles towards Mahodand Lake were intercepted by local people who allegedly insisted that visitors use local transport services instead. The confrontation disrupted the journey of several tourist groups, while some vehicles were reportedly threatened with stone pelting, forcing a number of visitors to abandon their trip.

Among those affected were students from Sargodha University, who were unable to complete their visit to Mahodand Lake, a popular attraction in Swat.

Swat Deputy Commissioner Saleem Jan Marwat took notice of the matter and directed the district administration, in coordination with District Police Officer Umar Gandapur, to begin legal proceedings against those involved, according to officials.

A case was subsequently registered at Kalam Police Station against around 30 individuals under relevant sections of the law for allegedly blocking tourists and creating fear and harassment.

Administration says no restrictions imposed on tourists

In an official statement, the district administration said the provincial government considered tourist protection a top priority and made clear that no person or group would be allowed to obstruct visitors or intimidate them.

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 administration also clarified that no restrictions had been placed on the movement of tourists in Kalam, Mahodand Lake or any other tourist sites in Swat. It said visitors were free to travel in their own vehicles or use transport operators of their choice, and that no one had the authority to stop them unlawfully.

Police promise strict action

DPO Gandapur said police responded promptly after the incident came to light and assured that strict action would be taken against those found involved.

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.

DC Marwat also urged both tourists and local residents to report any such incident to the administration or police without delay so that timely action could be taken.

The episode prompted strong criticism online, where social media users voiced concern that such incidents could harm tourism in Swat. Authorities, however, said coordinated steps were being taken to safeguard tourism activity and restore the confidence of visitors to the region.