Tourist Swept Away, Three Injured After Car Falls Into Kunhar River in Accident Balakot
A tragic incident unfolded in Balakot on Sunday when a car carrying tourists plunged into the Kunhar River, leaving one person missing and three others injured, local police confirmed.
According to officials, the accident occurred near the Bhonja area of Faridabad, a popular tourist route in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. All four victims are residents of Gujranwala who were visiting the scenic Kaghan Valley region.
Local residents acted swiftly to rescue three tourists from the fast-flowing river. However, one tourist was swept away by the strong current and is still missing. A dedicated search and rescue operation is underway to locate the missing individual.
Upon receiving an emergency alert, a Rescue 1122 team from the Kawai station reached the site promptly, providing first aid to the injured before shifting them to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Authorities say the rescued tourists are out of danger but traumatized by the incident.
Officials urge caution for travelers visiting the northern areas during the monsoon season, as heavy rains and slippery roads increase the risk of such accidents.
Swat River Flood Inquiry Highlights Broader Safety Gaps
This incident comes shortly after the Swat River flood inquiry revealed serious shortcomings in emergency preparedness and response by local departments. A 63-page report submitted to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur identified lapses in coordination among the District Administration, Irrigation, Local Government, and Rescue 1122 teams.
The report has led to disciplinary measures and fresh directives to strengthen safety protocols and emergency responses across the province’s popular tourist destinations.
Officials say incidents like the Kunhar River tragedy underline the urgent need for improved road safety awareness, better infrastructure, and strict monitoring of tourist spots to prevent avoidable accidents.
Local authorities have urged tourists to follow safety guidelines, avoid risky driving near riverbanks, and cooperate with rescue teams to ensure their safety in the event of an emergency.
