SWAT: Civil society activists on Tuesday demanded of the government to restore the previously-approved schemes for Swat that were dropped from the Annual Development Programme.

They made the demand during a meeting organised of the civil society organisation – Friends of Swat – in Mingora.

The participants, including Afzal Shah, Mohammad Ali, Fazal Maula, Shaukat Sharar, Zubair Torwali, Zahoor Ahmad and others, said they wanted to see Swat as a prosperous, developed and well-governed district. They emphasised their commitment to addressing the issues with a positive approach.

They regretted that the provincial government led by Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf had dropped several development schemes worth Rs18.5 billion that were already approved, indicating the Swat had always been ‘neglected’ by successive governments.

The activists pointed out the deterioration of Swat’s rich heritage, including the house of former Wali of Swat in Saidu Sharif, the White Palace in Marghuzar, the Tomb of Badshah Sahib, the Royal Palace in Aqba, and hundreds of other historical buildings that were crumbling due to official negligence. They asked the government to renovate and preserve these buildings.

The participants pointed out that people of Swat were grappling with severe psychological, social and financial problems caused by climate change. They said buildings had been constructed on the banks of the Swat River and other streams under the nose of the district administration.

They suggested constructing small dams on rivers and streams to offset the impact of climate change.

They also highlighted the issue of inadequate sports facilities for youth, mentioning the only major ground was in ruins because construction work initiated by the previous government was halted due to lack of funds.

They said lack of recreational and healthy activities had led youth to drug addiction. They said drug dealers were openly selling all types of contraband in Swat.

They decided to meet the Malakand division commissioner and Swat deputy commissioner to discuss the issues. They also invited youth activists and representatives from all parts of Swat to join their platform for betterment of the district.

Published in Dawn, May 29th, 2024