Conservationists hail SC verdict on eateries

Hope move safeguards delicate ecosystems, biodiversity

ISLAMABAD:

In a watershed moment for environmental conservation, the Supreme Court's decision to close eateries in the vicinity of Margalla Hills National Park has been hailed by diverse segments of society.

This move, aimed at safeguarding natural habitats and biodiversity, stands as a resolute step towards securing the future for generations to come.

Hammad Naqi Khan, Director General of WWF-Pakistan, hailed the Supreme Court's decision as a landmark step in conserving the fragile ecosystem of Margalla Hills National Park. Speaking to APP, he expressed profound appreciation for the judiciary's proactive stance in preserving the park's rich biodiversity and natural splendour, which he described as integral to the federal capital's beauty and identity. "The honourable judges have demonstrated a commendable commitment to safeguarding our natural heritage," remarked Khan, underlining the significance of this decision in advancing long-term conservation efforts across Pakistan. Khan emphasised the strategic importance of the judicial directive, stating, "This landmark decision represents a decisive stride towards the sustainable management and protection of Pakistan's invaluable natural resources."

The closure of commercial establishments within Margalla Hills National Park is viewed as pivotal in restoring ecological balance and promoting harmonious coexistence between human activities and environmental preservation.

WWF-Pakistan's advocacy spotlighted the ecological fragility of Margalla Hills National Park. Their dedication to sustainable conservation practices propelled this landmark decision, marking a new era of environmental stewardship in Pakistan, remarked Hammad Naqi Khan.

Nousheen Izhar, a Nature and Environmental Rights Activist volunteering with Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP), commenting on APP's question how do you see SC's decision? expressed concerns about irresponsible tourism and highlighted issues multiplied by restaurants like Monal, such as increased vehicular traffic, emissions, honking, and littering during weekends, Ramazan, Eid, and other festivities. Nousheen highlighted that waste disposal from these eateries has polluted natural springs, prompting cleanup efforts by the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board and volunteers. Expressing optimism about the Supreme Court's decision to close all restaurants within Margalla Hills National Park, she cautioned against potential large infrastructure projects such as plazas or housing societies. Nousheen emphasised the need for a harmonious coexistence approach to preserve the park's pristine habitats and protect its native species. Another activist and a multimedia journalist and founder of Green Rescue Report, Rabbia Arshad Turkman talking to this agency said, "I commend the Supreme Court's recognition that human mobility cannot be outright banned. However, it is crucial to impose restrictions that safeguard natural habitats, similar to regulations observed in Western nations. These measures are essential to protect biodiversity and ensure sustainable coexistence with our environment."

CEO of the Resilient Future International (RFI), Aftab Alam Khan said the Supreme Court judgment against illegal construction in Margalla Hills National Park can be a bulwark against an Eco-unfriendly mindset. "Environment Impact Assessments are an intrinsic part of any construction plan however, society, in general, is habitual of circumventing environment-related laws. Such loopholes must be plugged in after this decision of the apex court.

All segments must understand that harming environment means killing the future of our own generations," he said.