SWAT: The Upper Swat Development Authority (USDA) on Tuesday reported a record influx of tourists to the scenic Swat Valley during the Eidul Fitr holidays.

The assistant director and spokesperson of the authority, Saeedur Rehman, said that tourist arrivals witnessed a significant surge during the festive period, resulting in an extraordinary rush at major tourist destinations across the valley.

According to official figures, more than 173,432 tourists visited Swat over the four-day Eid holidays. The influx led to the entry of over 22,969 vehicles into the region. Among the visitors were 25 foreign tourists including nationals from China and the Philippines.

Mr. Rehman said that, following special directives from Secretary Tourism Saadat Hasan and Director General Shahzeb Abbas, comprehensive arrangements were put in place to facilitate tourists. He added that no major incident or complaint was reported during the period.

“Foolproof security arrangements and effective traffic management were ensured at all major tourist spots,” he said.

He further noted that coordinated efforts by the district administration, Upper Swat Development Authority, district police and tourism police played a key role in providing quality services to visitors. Despite the unprecedented rush, the overall system remained smooth and well-managed.

Meanwhile, residents of Swat have urged tourists to act responsibly and help preserve the valley’s natural beauty. The locals expressed concern that some visitors created excessive noise by playing loud music at public places and left behind litter including plastic bags, bottles and other waste at scenic sites.

They appealed to tourists to maintain cleanliness, respect the peaceful environment and cooperate with authorities in protecting the region’s pristine landscape for future generations.

Published in Dawn, March 25th, 2026