ISLAMABAD, Sep 11 (Alliance News): The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) has announced plans to restore public access to the Pir Sohava hilltop, located in the Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP), which had previously been occupied by large restaurants.
Starting September 12, these buildings will be dismantled, and the area will be rewilded and reintegrated into the natural landscape in accordance with the Supreme Court’s orders.
The IWMB has formed an implementation committee comprising officials from the District Administration, Islamabad Police, Capital Development Authority (CDA), Ministry of Climate Change, and restoration experts. Machinery and labor from CDA will assist in removing the restaurants and clearing the debris.
The restoration plan includes the creation of a Margalla Viewpoint to enhance public enjoyment while promoting wildlife conservation. proposed features of the plan including
- Installation of comfortable benches for visitors.
- Planting local flora to support biodiversity.
- Educational displays on indigenous wildlife.
- A water harvesting system and reservoir for sustainable water use.
- An Emergency Response Facility for firefighting and first aid services.
- A lighting management policy to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
The IWMB thanked Chief Justice of Pakistan, Qazi Faez Isa, for his judgment that reinforced an earlier decision by Justice Athar Minallah of the Islamabad High Court. The Supreme Court ruling emphasized the responsibility to act as stewards of the earth and conserve the natural environment for the survival and well-being of future generations.
