SWAT: Swat Traders Federation president Abdul Rahim said on Monday that eight months had passed since the devastating floods of August 15, 2025, but the government had yet to compensate traders and homeowners.

Speaking at a news conference at the Swat Press Club, he said the government funded ‘luxuries’, but lacked resources for flood-hit people.

The presidents and general secretaries of various market associations in Mingora were also present on this occasion.

Mr Rahim recalled the government had issued a notification on January 6, announcing financial compensation for those whose shops, houses, vehicles, and other properties were damaged in the floods.

However, he said that despite the passage of several months, the notification had not been implemented.

He said that around 3,000 homeowners and 2,500 shopkeepers were still awaiting compensation. He said the floods caused losses worth billions of rupees in Mingora city, but no efforts were made for the rehabilitation of the affected people.

He added that while the chief minister was announcing billions of rupees for other districts, he had ignored the flood-hit people of Swat.

Mr Rahim said that traders and affected individuals had repeatedly held meetings with local administration and members of the provincial assembly, but to no avail.

He warned that the traders would stage protests outside the residences of elected representatives if they did not get compensation within one week.

JIRGA RESOLVES DISPUTE: A jirga held here the other day resolved a murder enmity between two families.

The reconciliation was achieved through the efforts of Qaumi Tarun Jirga Babuzai.

Both families forgave each other during a meeting held in Saidu Sharif.

The ceremony was attended among others by federal minister Amir Muqam, provincial minister Riaz Khan, MPAs Rashad Khan, Abdul Muneem and Fazal Hakeem Khan Yousafzai, former provincial minister Qari Mahmood and former senator Rahat Hassan.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Muqam said that Pakhtuns often became embroiled in conflicts over minor issues and emphasised the need for promoting tolerance, unity and brotherhood to prevent further loss of lives. He appreciated the efforts of the jirga for facilitating reconciliation.

Published in Dawn, May 5th, 2026