In an auspicious moment for environmental protection, the Supreme Court’s decision to close canteens around the Margalla Hills National Park was welcomed by various sections of society. Steps to protect natural habitats and biodiversity are important steps to secure the future of future generations.
WWF-Pakistan Director General Hammad Naqi Khan hailed the Supreme Court verdict as an important step towards preserving the fragile ecosystem of the Margalla Hills National Park. Speaking to APP, he expressed deep appreciation for the proactive attitude of the court in protecting the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of the park, describing it as an integral part of the beauty and identity of the federal capital.
“The honorable judge has shown a commendable commitment to protecting our natural heritage,” Khan said, stressing the importance of the decision to promote long-term conservation efforts in Pakistan.
“This important decision is an important step towards the sustainable management and protection of Pakistan’s precious natural resources,” Khan said, stressing the strategic importance of the court’s order. The closure of commercial enterprises in the Margalla Hills National Park is considered essential to restore the ecological balance and promote a harmonious coexistence between human activities and environmental protection.
WWF-Pakistan advocacy has highlighted the ecological vulnerability of the Margalla Hills National Park. Their commitment to sustainable conservation practices drove this landmark decision, which marks a new era of environmental stewardship in Pakistan, said Hammad Naqi Khan.
Natural rights and environmental activist Nousen Izhar, who volunteers with the Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP), commented on APP’s question, What do you think about the SC decision? expressed concern over irresponsible tourism and highlighted the problem of increased traffic, increased emissions, pollution and pollution in restaurants such as Monal during weekends, Ramadan, Eid al-Adha and other festivals.
Nousheen said that this disposal of food waste has polluted natural resources, prompting a clean-up effort by the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board and volunteers. Expressing optimism over the Supreme Court’s decision to close all restaurants in the Margalla Hills National Park, he warned against large infrastructure projects like plazas or housing communities. Nousheen said coexistence is necessary to preserve the park’s primary habitat and protect native species.
Rabbia Arshad Türkman, activist and multimedia journalist and founder of Green Rescue Report, told this agency: “I agree that the Supreme Court cannot ban human actions directly. However, it is very important to introduce restrictions that protect natural habitats similar to those observed in the country -Western countries. These measures are important to preserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable living with our environment.”
Aftab Alam Khan, CEO, Resilient Future International (RFI), said the Supreme Court verdict on illegal construction in the Margalla Hills National Park could be a safeguard against eco-friendly ideas.
“Environmental impact assessment is a key part of all construction plans, but society as a whole tends to ignore environmental laws. Such loopholes must be closed after the Supreme Court’s decision. The segment must understand that damaging the environment is murderous; our future. Our own generation,” he said.
Khan added that despite being one of the climate-harming countries, the majority of people do not want to leave their imaginary comfort zone.
By answering the APP question, how can we sensitize our society to the importance of biodiversity? he said,
“From elementary school to PhD, from madrasa to public and private schools, our education system must teach the elimination of environmentally friendly behavior. And all institutions, government institutions must hold the same training. We must change the concept of cycle to respect the environment and related laws and policies.
“This decision highlights the importance of maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring an undisturbed natural space. It will protect the unique flora and fauna of the Margalla Hills, promote a healthy ecosystem and increase the value of the park as a wildlife sanctuary and a place of natural beauty,” said Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ismail Kumbhar, Sustainable Development Specialist, Sindh. University of Agriculture, Tandojam, APP when asked to comment on this development.
In a landmark order, the Supreme Court has ordered the closure of all restaurants, including the popular Monal restaurant located in the Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP) in Islamabad, for the next three months. Look
