Margalla viewpoint to undergo major revamp

IWMB says revitalisation will restore ecosystem, boost local tourism

ISLAMABAD:

The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), led by Chairperson Rina Saeed Khan, has unveiled a master plan for the development of an information centre at the Monal site in Margalla Hills National Park on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in ecological restoration and sustainable development. The plan, which culminates years of legal and environmental efforts, aims to balance nature conservation with development.

Khan expressed her joy at seeing the results of extensive legal battles and environmental campaigns, stating, "We are here with the architect team to share the master plan for the Margalla Viewpoint, which will bring significant changes to this region. Justice, nature, and respect for this national park have triumphed."

The project's journey has been challenging, including issues of illegal encroachments and the transformation of a small restaurant into a concrete structure, which degraded the park's pristine landscape. Khan highlighted the work of volunteers, led by Tassaduq Malik, who have been involved in removing invasive lantana species, signalling the start of ecological restoration efforts.

The IWMB has secured a partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), which will help with fundraising and managing international funds for the park's conservation. Khan emphasized the importance of the park, saying, "Margalla Hills is not only an iconic national park, but it's also the only national park within a capital city. We're now starting the process of giving back to the people of Pakistan."

The master plan, presented by architect Imrana Tiwana, aims to restore and connect the park's three ridges, create new trails for trekkers, and integrate eco-restoration features like rainwater harvesting and green linkages. "We're turning Margalla Hills into a living lab, where the public can interact with nature while learning about its ecological significance," said Tiwana. The park will also feature accessible routes, children's play areas, and an Information Centre in partnership with WWF.

The collaboration with DB Studios, led by Saifullah Siddiqui, will ensure the site's development is both sustainable and functional. The redesign includes new amenities like a green eco-parking facility, a promenade with a tree canopy, and thematic labs offering views of the park's stunning landscapes. A serpentine bridge will connect a butterfly zone, and an amphitheatre will host community events and educational activities.

The project's commitment to eco-friendly measures includes the use of building debris for rock filling and the introduction of an electric vehicle fleet to reduce emissions. Tiwana highlighted that the project would provide employment opportunities for local communities, who will play key roles in the park's maintenance.