THIS is with reference to the report `17 killed as rains wreak havoc across KP` (June 28), which, among other things, covered the heart-breaking incident in Swat in which 13 members of a family lost their lives during a picnic that turned tragic. What began as a joyful outing ended in disaster when a sudden surge in the water level turned a dry area into a raging stream. The family climbed onto a large rock, desperately calling for help for over two hours. Sadly, no rescue teams, helicopters, or welfare organisations arrived in time. All that anyone could do was to search for the bodies.
The tragedy highlights a painful truth that in some areas voices are not heard unless they belong to the powerful or at least someone close to the powerful.
Planning a trip like this takes months of savings and excitement, especially for children during summer vacation. But, instead of joy, the family got washed away, and the nation has been left with trauma and grief.
The incident has once again raised some serious questions. Where were the rescue services? Of what use are funds and budgets if they cannot be used to save lives? When fun turns into sorrow, we must urgently address the stark reality.
