“They touched the lives of many here at Chester"
Two Pakistani sisters studying in the UK lost their lives in a heartbreaking drowning incident at Watkin Pools in Eryri, North Wales.
The tragedy has shaken both the local and international communities, prompting a growing demand for answers from authorities.
Hajra Zahid and Haleema Zahid were both pursuing postgraduate degrees in International Business at the University of Chester.
They had moved to the UK four months ago and were living in Maltby, Rotherham.
On June 11, 2025, the sisters visited the Watkin Path area in the Nant Gwynant valley.
North Wales Police confirmed that one of the women was pulled from the water, and the other remained submerged when emergency services were alerted.
Despite rescue efforts, the Pakistani sisters were pronounced dead at the scene just before midnight.
A preliminary inquest held at the Dafydd Orwig Chamber in Caernarfon has confirmed drowning as the cause of death.
The incident has caused widespread grief within the Pakistani diaspora, both in the UK and back home.
Funeral prayers were held in northern England, after which the sisters’ bodies were repatriated to Pakistan.
Hajra Zahid was married and left behind two young sons, aged six and three.
University of Chester Vice-Chancellor Professor Eunice Simmons said:
“The University of Chester community is in mourning for the tragic loss of Haleema Zahid and Hajra Zahid and our heartfelt sympathies are with their families and friends during this incredibly difficult time.
“Haleema and Hajra had joined Chester Business School earlier this year on the Master’s in International Business course.
“They touched the lives of many here at Chester – their friends, the cohort on their course and the staff who taught them – and they will be deeply missed.”
Vigils have been held in their memory, and community members are calling for clearer details regarding the circumstances that led to their deaths.
The tragedy has also drawn attention to safety at the Watkin Path, a scenic but remote route to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
This is not the first fatal incident reported near the mountain’s pools, which have become popular swimming and hiking spots.
Local authorities continue to advise caution, especially for visitors who arrive late in the day or are unfamiliar with the terrain.
A journalist shared on social media that Hajra’s husband has requested a formal investigation from UK authorities.
The ongoing inquest has been adjourned pending further findings.
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