Azma Bokhari Slams KP Govt Over ‘Inhumane’ Handling of Swat Tragedy Victims
“The most shameful thing is that rescue personnel could not reach them on time,” says Punjab Information Minister
By TN Web Desk | June 28, 2025
Lahore — Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has strongly condemned the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government for what she described as the “inhumane and disrespectful” treatment of victims in the recent Swat River tragedy. Speaking during a session of the Punjab Assembly on Saturday, Bokhari accused KP authorities of gross negligence and a complete lack of empathy for the deceased tourists who drowned after being swept away by a sudden water surge.
The incident claimed the lives of at least 11 individuals from a Sialkot-based family who had been picnicking by the scenic Swat River. While four were rescued during the initial hours of the emergency, two others remain missing as of the latest update. Bokhari’s remarks came amid ongoing search and rescue operations led by Rescue 1122 teams, who have now been working tirelessly for over 24 hours across various areas of Swat district.
Bodies Transported in Garbage Dumpers
In her emotional speech, Minister Azma Bokhari didn’t mince words as she expressed outrage over the way the deceased were handled. “The most shameful thing is that rescue personnel could not reach them on time, and when they recovered the bodies, they used a dumper — the kind used for transporting rubbish — to bring those corpses to Punjab,” she said.
Her voice trembling with emotion, she added, “If you couldn’t save them, at least deliver them home with honour. What was their fault?” Bokhari questioned the KP government’s competence, calling it “a failure not just of administration but of basic humanity.”
The minister’s criticism echoed widespread anger across social media platforms, where users shared videos and photos that allegedly showed the deceased being transported in dump trucks — a move that many described as undignified and appalling.
Where Was the Chief Minister?
Bokhari also took aim at KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, questioning his absence during the critical moments of the rescue mission. “Where was the chief minister when families were drowning in the Swat River?” she asked. “He was outside Adiala Jail, serving a king.”
This reference was aimed at Gandapur’s controversial political alignment with PTI founder Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned. Bokhari accused the KP leadership of focusing more on political loyalties than on public welfare and disaster response.
She reminded the assembly that similar tragic incidents had occurred in Swat in past years, but no preventive measures had been taken. “How many more families have to suffer before someone takes responsibility?” she questioned.
A Failure of Humanity
Azma Bokhari’s fiery address wasn’t just political; it was deeply human. “This does not require a government — it only needs basic humanity and empathy,” she told the house. She urged all lawmakers to put aside politics and focus on developing a responsive, dignified, and effective rescue system.
Her comments resonated with citizens across Punjab and KP, especially those with loved ones who frequent the northern regions for tourism. Many echoed her sentiments, demanding reforms in emergency response systems and accountability for those responsible for the mishandling of the victims.
Rescue Operations Underway
According to Rescue 1122, the tragedy unfolded when 17 members of a family from Sialkot, vacationing in Swat Valley, were suddenly caught in a strong and unexpected water surge along the Swat River. The river, known for its fast-moving currents during monsoon season, became lethal due to the surge that swept several individuals into deeper waters.
Despite rapid mobilization, rescue personnel faced severe challenges. Strong currents, dangerous terrain, and the onset of nightfall hampered efforts in the first few hours.
As of Saturday evening, rescue teams had confirmed the recovery of 11 bodies, including several children. Two individuals are still missing, and search operations remain active. Over 120 trained personnel from Swat, Malakand, and Shangla are now involved in the operation. Using boats, sonar equipment, and life scanners, teams have expanded their efforts to Khwazakhela, Kabal Bypass, and Barikot.
Public Reaction and Outrage
The public response to the incident has been one of grief, frustration, and outrage. Hashtags like #SwatTragedy, #AzmaBokhari, and #JusticeForVictims have been trending on X (formerly Twitter) as citizens demand accountability.
Many have posted questions about the preparedness of local administrations to deal with natural disasters, particularly during the summer season when tourists from southern Punjab and Sindh flock to the northern areas.
One user wrote, “This is not just about Swat. This could happen in Murree, Hunza, or anywhere else. If our governments don’t prioritize rescue infrastructure, these tragedies will continue.”
Another posted, “No one deserves to be brought home in a garbage truck. What kind of system are we living in?”
Government Response from KP
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for the KP government claimed that the dump truck was used out of logistical necessity and that other vehicles were not immediately available due to flooding in the area. However, this explanation has not appeased critics, who say that emergency protocols should have ensured dignified alternatives.
The KP Home Department has announced an inquiry into the handling of the rescue and recovery process. Officials have also
Federal Govt Urged to Intervene
Several lawmakers from the opposition have called on the federal government to step in and ensure fair treatment of the victims’ families. Human rights activists are also calling for nationwide reform of disaster management protocols, including the standardization of respectful procedures for the recovery and return of deceased persons.
Bokhari emphasized the importance of cross-provincial coordination in such incidents, especially when the victims belong to one province and the tragedy occurs in another. “We need protocols that preserve the dignity of every citizen — regardless of where they die,” she asserted dumpers.
History Repeats Itself
This is not the first time that northern Pakistan has witnessed such a disaster. Flash floods in Swat, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Murree have claimed lives in previous years, often catching tourists off guard. Despite repeated tragedies, there remains a gap in early warning systems, emergency shelters, and trained rapid-response units in the region dumpers.
The 2022 Murree snowstorm, which killed 22 people trapped in their cars, is still fresh in the nation’s memory. At that time, too, government negligence and lack of timely rescue were widely blamed dumpers.
What’s Next?
With search and rescue efforts ongoing, families of the victims wait in painful silence for news of their missing loved ones. The Swat tragedy has not only shattered the lives of one family but also exposed deep cracks in the country’s emergency response infrastructure dumpers.
Azma Bokhari’s emotional plea to uphold dignity in both life and death has struck a chord across Pakistan, igniting a debate about how tragedies should be handled and how much accountability governments owe to their citizens dumpers.
In her final remarks to the assembly, Bokhari said, “Governments come and go. But the memory of a loved one wrapped in disrespect — that stays forever.”
As of now, the nation waits, watches, and mourns — and demands that something must finally change dumpers.
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A Failure of Humanity
Azma Bokhari’s fiery address wasn’t just political; it was deeply human. “This does not require a government — it only needs basic humanity and empathy,” she told the house. She urged all lawmakers to put aside politics and focus on developing a responsive, dignified, and effective rescue systemm dumpers.
Her comments resonated with citizens across Punjab and KP, especially those with loved ones who frequent the northern regions for tourism. Many echoed her sentiments, demanding reforms in emergency response systems and accountability for those responsible for the mishandling of the victims dumpers.
Rescue Operations Underway
According to Rescue 1122, the tragedy unfolded when 17 members of a family from Sialkot, vacationing in Swat Valley, were suddenly caught in a strong and unexpected water surge along the Swat River. The river, known for its fast-moving currents during monsoon season, became lethal due to the surge that swept several individuals into deeper watersm dumpers.
Despite rapid mobilization, rescue personnel faced severe challenges. Strong currents, dangerous terrain, and the onset of nightfall hampered efforts in the first few hours dumpers.
As of Saturday evening, rescue teams had confirmed the recovery of 11 bodies, including several children. Two individuals are still missing, and search operations remain active. Over 120 trained personnel from Swat, Malakand, and Shangla are now involved in the operation. Using boats, sonar equipment, and life scanners, teams have expanded their efforts to Khwazakhela, Kabal Bypass, and Barikot dumpers.
Public Reaction and Outrage
The public response to the incident has been one of grief, frustration, and outrage. Hashtags like #SwatTragedy, #AzmaBokhari, and #JusticeForVictims have been trending on X (formerly Twitter) as citizens demand accountability dumpers.
Many have posted questions about the preparedness of local administrations to deal with natural disasters, particularly during the summer season when tourists from southern Punjab and Sindh flock to the northern areas.
One user wrote, “This is not just about Swat. This could happen in Murree, Hunza, or anywhere else. If our governments don’t prioritize rescue infrastructure, these tragedies will continue dumpers.
Another posted, “No one deserves to be brought home in a garbage truck. What kind of system are we living in?”
Government Response from KP
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for the KP government claimed that the dump truck was used out of logistical necessity and that other vehicles were not immediately available due to flooding in the area. However, this explanation has not appeased critics, who say that emergency protocols should have ensured dignified alternatives dumpers.
The KP Home Department has announced an inquiry into the handling of the rescue and recovery process. Officials have also vowed to investigate the video footage showing the alleged transportation of the dead in dumpers.
Federal Govt Urged to Intervene
Several lawmakers from the opposition have called on the federal government to step in and ensure fair treatment of the victims’ families. Human rights activists are also calling for nationwide reform of disaster management protocols, including the standardization of respectful procedures for the recovery and return of deceased persons dumpers.
Bokhari emphasized the importance of cross-provincial coordination in such incidents, especially when the victims belong to one province and the tragedy occurs in another. “We need protocols that preserve the dignity of every citizen — regardless of where they die,” she asserted dumpers.
History Repeats Itself
This is not the first time that northern Pakistan has witnessed such a disaster. Flash floods in Swat, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Murree have claimed lives in previous years, often catching tourists off guard. Despite repeated tragedies, there remains a gap in early warning systems, emergency shelters, and trained rapid-response units in the region dumpers.
The 2022 Murree snowstorm, which killed 22 people trapped in their cars, is still fresh in the nation’s memory. At that time, too, government negligence and lack of timely rescue were widely blamed.
What’s Next?
With search and rescue efforts ongoing, families of the victims wait in painful silence for news of their missing loved ones. The Swat tragedy has not only shattered the lives of one family but also exposed deep cracks in the country’s emergency response infrastructure.
Azma Bokhari’s emotional plea to uphold dignity in both life and death has struck a chord across Pakistan, igniting a debate about how tragedies should be handled and how much accountability governments owe to their citizens.
In her final remarks to the assembly, Bokhari said, “Governments come and go. But the memory of a loved one wrapped in disrespect — that stays forever.”
Federal Govt Urged to Intervene
Several lawmakers from the opposition have called on the federal government to step in and ensure fair treatment of the victims’ families. Human rights activists are also calling for nationwide reform of disaster management protocols, including the standardization of respectful procedures for the recovery and return of deceased persons.
Bokhari emphasized the importance of cross-provincial coordination in such incidents, especially when the victims belong to one province and the tragedy occurs in another. “We need protocols that preserve the dignity of every citizen — regardless of where they die,” she asserted.
History Repeats Itself
This is not the first time that northern Pakistan has witnessed such a disaster. Flash floods in Swat, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Murree have claimed lives in previous years, often catching tourists off guard. Despite repeated tragedies, there remains a gap in early warning systems, emergency shelters, and trained rapid-response units in the region.
The 2022 Murree snowstorm, which killed 22 people trapped in their cars, is still fresh in the nation’s memory. At that time, too, government negligence and lack of timely rescue were widely blamed.
What’s Next?
With search and rescue efforts ongoing, families of the victims wait in painful silence for news of their missing loved ones. The Swat tragedy has not only shattered the lives of one family but also exposed deep cracks in the country’s emergency response infrastructure dumpers.
Azma Bokhari’s emotional plea to uphold dignity in both life and death has struck a chord across Pakistan, igniting a debate about how tragedies should be handled and how much accountability governments owe to their citizens dumpers.
In her final remarks to the assembly, Bokhari said, “Governments come and go. But the memory of a loved one wrapped in disrespect — that stays forever dumpers.
As of now, the nation waits, watches, and mourns — and demands that something must finally changem dumpers.
A Failure of Humanity
Azma Bokhari’s fiery address wasn’t just political; it was deeply human. “This does not require a government — it only needs basic humanity and empathy,” she told the house. She urged all lawmakers to put aside politics and focus on developing a responsive, dignified, and effective rescue system dumpers.
Her comments resonated with citizens across Punjab and KP, especially those with loved ones who frequent the northern regions for tourism. Many echoed her sentiments, demanding reforms in emergency response systems and accountability for those responsible for the mishandling of the victims dumpers.
Rescue Operations Underway
According to Rescue 1122, the tragedy unfolded when 17 members of a family from Sialkot, vacationing in Swat Valley, were suddenly caught in a strong and unexpected water surge along the Swat River. The river, known for its fast-moving currents during monsoon season, became lethal due to the surge that swept several individuals into deeper waters dumpers.
Despite rapid mobilization, rescue personnel faced severe challenges. Strong currents, dangerous terrain, and the onset of nightfall hampered efforts in the first few hours dumpers.
As of Saturday evening, rescue teams had confirmed the recovery of 11 bodies, including several children. Two individuals are still missing, and search operations remain active. Over 120 trained personnel from Swat, Malakand, and Shangla are now involved in the operation. Using boats, sonar equipment, and life scanners, teams have expanded their efforts to Khwazakhela, Kabal Bypass, and Barikot.
Public Reaction and Outrage
The public response to the incident has been one of grief, frustration, and outrage. Hashtags like #SwatTragedy, #AzmaBokhari, and #JusticeForVictims have been trending on X (formerly Twitter) as citizens demand accountability. dumpers.
Many have posted questions about the preparedness of local administrations to deal with natural disasters, particularly during the summer season when tourists from southern Punjab and Sindh flock to the northern areas dumpers.
One user wrote, “This is not just about Swat. This could happen in Murree, Hunza, or anywhere else. If our governments don’t prioritize rescue infrastructure, these tragedies will continue.”
Another posted, “No one deserves to be brought home in a garbage truck. What kind of system are we living in? dumpers.
Government Response from KP
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for the KP government claimed that the dump truck was used out of logistical necessity and that other vehicles were not immediately available due to flooding in the area. However, this explanation has not appeased critics, who say that emergency protocols should have ensured dignified alternatives dumpers.
The KP Home Department has announced an inquiry into the handling of the rescue and recovery process. Officials have also vowed to investigate the video footage showing the alleged transportation of the dead in dumpers dumpers.
Federal Govt Urged to Intervene
Several lawmakers from the opposition have called on the federal government to step in and ensure fair treatment of the victims’ families. Human rights activists are also calling for nationwide reform of disaster management protocols, including the standardization of respectful procedures for the recovery and return of deceased persons. dumpers.
Bokhari emphasized the importance of cross-provincial coordination in such incidents, especially when the victims belong to one province and the tragedy occurs in another. “We need protocols that preserve the dignity of every citizen — regardless of where they die,” she asserted dumpers.
History Repeats Itself
This is not the first time that northern Pakistan has witnessed such a disaster. Flash floods in Swat, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Murree have claimed lives in previous years, often catching tourists off guard. Despite repeated tragedies, there remains a gap in early warning systems, emergency shelters, and trained rapid-response units in the region dumpers.
The 2022 Murree snowstorm, which killed 22 people trapped in their cars, is still fresh in the nation’s memory. At that time, too, government negligence and lack of timely rescue were widely blamed.
What’s Next?
With search and rescue efforts ongoing, families of the victims wait in painful silence for news of their missing loved ones. The Swat tragedy has not only shattered the lives of one family but also exposed deep cracks in the country’s emergency response infrastructure dumpers.
Azma Bokhari’s emotional plea to uphold dignity in both life and death has struck a chord across Pakistan, igniting a debate about how tragedies should be handled and how much accountability governments owe to their citizens dumpers.
In her final remarks to the assembly, Bokhari said, “Governments come and go. But the memory of a loved one wrapped in disrespect — that stays forever dumpers.”
As of now, the nation waits, watches, and mourns — and demands that something must finally change.
