The rescue authorities say that the glacier broke off in the mountainous region, trapping seven people in its path
SWAT: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-July 18th, 2026) A glacier collapse in the Matiltan area of Kalam, a popular tourist destination in Swat district, left one person missing and three others injured after seven people were caught in the incident on Saturday, rescue officials said.
The rescue authorities said that the glacier broke off in the mountainous region, trapping seven people in its path.
Emergency teams were dispatched to the scene immediately after receiving information about the incident and launched a search and rescue operation.
Rescuers managed to pull six people to safety during the operation. Three of the rescued individuals sustained injuries and were shifted to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment. Officials said their condition is stable.
One person, however, remains unaccounted for. Rescue teams continue to search the area in an effort to locate the missing individual despite the difficult terrain and challenging weather conditions.
The local authorities said the operation is being carried out with caution due to the unstable glacier and the risk of further ice movement. Additional rescue personnel and equipment have been deployed to speed up the search efforts.
The Matiltan valley, located near Kalam in the upper Swat region, is a well-known tourist attraction that draws thousands of visitors every year because of its glaciers, forests and scenic landscapes. However, officials have repeatedly warned that changing weather patterns and rising temperatures can increase the risk of glacier movement and related incidents in high-altitude areas.
Rescue officials have advised tourists and local residents to avoid venturing close to glaciers or other potentially hazardous locations during the summer season and to follow safety advisories issued by local authorities.
The search operation for the missing person is continuing, while authorities are monitoring the area to prevent any further incidents.
