A man was swept away by strong floodwaters in the Achhranala stream after the spillway of Kotkai Dam was opened in Mansehra here on Sunday.
The victim, identified as Arshad, a lineman and resident of Khara Mir, was reportedly caught in the surge of water released from the dam. His body was later recovered from the Gandhianala stream by Rescue 1122 personnel and shifted to a nearby hospital. According to officials, the spillway was opened to manage rising water levels amid increasing pressure on the dam structure.
However, local residents alleged that flaws in the construction of the dam contributed to the incident. They claimed that the spillways were opened in panic due to fears that mounting water pressure could compromise the dam wall, resulting in a sudden and forceful release of water.
The residents further demanded an inquiry into the dam’s construction and management, stating that negligence may have led to the loss of life. Authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement addressing the allegations.