Flash flood in Pakistan claims nine lives of family members

At least nine people from one extended family died when floodwaters swept away children in a river in northern Pakistan. The family was having a picnic breakfast by the Swat River when a flash flood occurred. Relatives tried to save them but were caught up in the deluge exacerbated by monsoon rains. Nine bodies have been recovered, with four members still missing and four rescued.

The family group was visiting the picturesque Swat Valley. Locals and over 80 rescue workers are searching for survivors. Eyewitnesses reported that the victims waited over two hours for official rescue services to arrive. The provincial government suspended several officials for negligence.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority issued an alert about high flood levels, urging people to take precautions. Tens of thousands of tourists visit the north's peaks and glaciers every summer. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief over the tourists' deaths.

According to the source: The Indian Express.