MINGORA: President of the Malakand Division Traders Federation, Abdul Rahim, has said that eight months have passed since the devastating floods that struck Swat on August 15, 2025, yet thousands of traders and homeowners are still deprived of government assistance.
Addressing a press conference at the Swat Press Club, he criticized the government’s performance, stating that while funds are available for luxuries and showcase projects, there are no resources for flood-affected people, which reflects a highly regrettable and anti-public attitude.
Accompanied by presidents and general secretaries of various market associations in Mingora, along with other trader leaders and flood-affected traders and artisans, Abdul Rahim said the government had issued a formal notification on January 6, announcing financial compensation for those whose shops, houses, vehicles, and other properties were damaged in the floods.
However, he added, even after months, the notification has not been implemented. He added that around 3,000 homeowners and 2,500 shopkeepers are still struggling to obtain compensation and are being forced to run from pillar to post, while authorities continue to offer only hollow assurances.
Abdul Rahim stated that the floods caused huge losses in Mingora city, but no serious steps have been taken by the government for the rehabilitation of the affected people.He expressed grave concern over the silence of public representatives on this critical issue, saying their role appears questionable.
The traders’ representative remarked that announcements of billions of rupees for other districts by the chief minister, while ignoring Swat’s affected population, is tantamount to rubbing salt into the wounds of the victims.
He added that traders and other affected people have repeatedly met with local administration and members of the assembly, but no meaningful progress has been made, leading to widespread frustration and anger among the victims.
Abdul Rahim demanded that the government immediately fulfill its promises, complete transparent lists of affected people, and provide financial assistance without delay to ease the hardships of affected families.
