With parks closed, greenbelts attract people

Officials say they are maintaining the city’s looks but lack funds, machines

ISLAMABAD: As the government imposed a lockdown in the federal capital, along with the rest of the country to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19), the green belts of the city are now sporting overgrown shrubs and grass, dampening its lustre which had been the hallmark of Islamabad.

"The landscaping of greenbelts and parks is imperative to enhance the beauty of the city apart from ensuring a healthy environment for residents who are already battling with a global pandemic," said Raja Sharafat, a resident of Sector G-7.

Pointing out the casual upkeep of greenbelts, he said that the environment department of the Islamabad Metropolitan Corporation (IMC) must carry out a vigorous campaign to refurbish the lush-green features of the city.

Closed parks leave stall, ride owners concerned

With the city’s parks and zoos closed, many people have turned to lounge on the greenbelts of the city. Sharafat said that some people even bring their animals and pets and let them graze and play in the greenbelts.

This is a sheer violation of the environmental laws and should be dealt with strictly, he claimed, urging the city’s authorities to fine violators.

Ajmal Khan, a resident, who frequents the greenbelt near Sector F-6 along with his friends, said this was the perfect place to enjoy the cool evenings during the hot summer days and the pandemic.

"It is not easy to spend evenings indoors as we live in a very congested locality," said Yusuf Maseeh from Sector G-6, justifying the use of greenbelt as a recreational spot.

Meanwhile, city officials responsible for maintaining the environment and green character of the city said that they have been trying their best given the meagre resources.

Parks open from today in Punjab

"We have been utilizing all the [available] resources at our disposal to ensure the maintenance of greenbelts across the capital city," IMC Environment Director Irfan Niazi told APP. He said trimming shrubs and grass on greenbelts and in the parks is being carried out regularly.

He, however, urged residents to avoid damaging greenbelts in the sectoral areas.

On the challenges faced by the IMC in maintaining the look of the federal capital, he said that the department has been unable to upgrade its machinery due to a shortage of funds.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 15^th, 2020.