The tragic loss of two young sisters, Hajra Zahid, 29, and Haleema Zahid, 25, has left their family, friends, and the community in mourning. The sisters, who were both students at the University of Chester, tragically drowned at the popular beauty spot, Watkin Pools, in the Nant Gwynant area of Gwynedd, also known as the Snowdonia National Park, last week. The heartbreaking incident occurred during a trip to North Wales with university friends, and the subsequent inquest has revealed that both women died from drowning.
During a brief hearing at the Dafydd Orwig Chamber in Caernarfon on Wednesday, assistant coroner for north-west Wales, Sarah Riley, confirmed the cause of death. She shared that both Hajra and Haleema had entered the water at the Watkin Pools, which is located at the foot of Snowdon, one of the UK’s most iconic mountains. Tragically, they both perished in the water. “I offer my sincere condolences to their family, friends, and all who knew and loved them,” Riley said in the brief session, which was adjourned for further investigations.
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The tragedy has been felt deeply by the family of the sisters, who were originally from Pakistan but had settled in Maltby, Rotherham, South Yorkshire. They had traveled to the picturesque Snowdonia National Park to enjoy some time in nature with university friends, unaware that the outing would turn to tragedy. Their visit to the Watkin Pools, located south of Snowdon’s summit along the Watkin Path, is known to many as a serene and beautiful location, but unfortunately, it became the site of a devastating loss.
Both sisters were pursuing master’s degrees in international business at the University of Chester, which expressed its shock and sorrow at their passing. The university issued a statement acknowledging the profound impact the sisters had on those around them, describing them as students who had “touched the lives of many” since they began their studies earlier this year. Hajra and Haleema were not only known for their academic determination but also for their warmth, kindness, and commitment to helping others. Their sudden and tragic deaths have left a deep void in the university community.
In a heartfelt tribute, Dr. Bilal Saeed, a former colleague of Haleema Zahid at a telecommunications company in Islamabad, Pakistan, spoke of her exceptional character. He described her as “an exceptionally compassionate, hardworking, and kind individual,” adding that she had “touched the lives of many with her warmth, professionalism, and unwavering dedication.” Dr. Saeed also mentioned that Haleema had left the firm to pursue higher education in the UK, where she was eager to embark on a new chapter of her life.
Sheharyar Shahnawaz, another former colleague of Haleema, shared similar sentiments about her vibrant personality, recalling that she was “an amazing lady, very lively and energetic, someone you would want in your life.” Shahnawaz also shared that Haleema had become the pillar of her family after the death of her father the previous year, demonstrating incredible resilience and strength in the face of adversity. He mentioned that just before Haleema left for the UK, she had expressed excitement about her new journey and the opportunities that awaited her.
The tragedy has also highlighted the beauty and challenges of the Watkin Path and its surrounding areas, which draw many visitors to Snowdonia National Park each year. The Watkin Path is one of the most popular routes to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), and the Watkin Pools are a well-known and scenic destination along the way. However, like many natural beauty spots, it has its own set of risks. Although the area is known for its serene surroundings, it also has deep pools that can be treacherous, especially for those unfamiliar with the environment. Local authorities, including the North Wales Police, are now working to ensure that further awareness is raised about safety measures in these areas, particularly with regard to the risks posed by bodies of water.
North Wales Police responded to the distressing situation on June 11, 2025, at approximately 21:30 BST after receiving reports that one woman had been pulled from the water, and another was still in one of the pools. Despite the efforts of emergency services, both women were pronounced dead at about 23:00 BST. The police have not provided additional details on the specific circumstances surrounding the incident, but they have stated that the investigation into the tragic deaths is ongoing.
Following the hearing, the family and friends of the Zahid sisters have expressed their grief and gratitude for the support they have received from the community. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on gathering all the facts surrounding the incident, including reviewing any available footage from nearby businesses and the Watkin Path. The police have appealed for anyone who may have witnessed the events or has information that could assist in understanding what happened to come forward.
The community of Covington, Louisiana, where the Zahid family had made their home, has come together to mourn the loss of the two young women, and tributes have poured in from family, friends, and the wider community. Local schools, friends, and relatives have remembered the sisters for their spirit, compassion, and their ability to brighten any room they entered. While their deaths are a devastating loss, the memories they left behind will continue to inspire and bring people together in tribute to their love and energy.
As the investigation progresses, the focus shifts to both understanding the cause of the tragedy and ensuring that the appropriate safety measures are in place for future visitors to the Watkin Pools and surrounding areas. For now, the Zahid family and their friends are left with the painful task of processing their grief, while also reflecting on the impact these two incredible women had on the world.
Plans for memorial services to honor Hajra and Haleema are underway, with family members and friends coming together to celebrate their lives and the profound legacy they leave behind. The community continues to express support for the family during this difficult time, and tributes are expected to be shared at services that will be held both locally and in Pakistan.
As a community reflects on the untimely loss of Hajra and Haleema, the pain is deeply felt, but so too is the love and strength they shared with everyone they met. Though their time on earth was brief, the impact they had on the world will continue to echo through the lives of those who loved them, and their spirits will live on in the memories of all who knew them.
Rest in peace, Hajra and Haleema Zahid. You will be missed deeply, but your light and love will never fade.