Capital parks grapple with increased footfall

Irresponsible attitude of growing number of visitors dampens beauty of green spaces

ISLAMABAD:

Parks in the federal capital have always proved to be attractive choices for people of all ages to visit and spend time in a hassle-free environment, especially on weekends, but the irresponsible attitude of growing visitors is also dampening the beauty of green spaces.

After a week-long hassle, every weekend, thousands of Islamabad Capital Territory residents throng different parks across the city to spend some leisure time close to nature.

Grassy tracts, blooming flowers and chirping birds soothe these visitors and recharge their spirits for another busy week ahead. Commonly, the minors who have a greater attraction for these parks enjoy much there in parks on weekly holidays.

Not only for locals, Islamabad's parks are also a favourite spot for people coming from other cities to enjoy these green spaces, offering much-needed breathing room in a fast-paced life. However, the increasing footfall at its known recreational spots like Lake View Park, Rose and Jasmine Garden, Daman-e-Koh, Shah Allah Ditta Caves and Saidpur Village is putting pressure on their upkeep.

Since Islamabad is known for its clean air, serene environment and wide stretches of greenery, its bustling parks where children enjoy swings and slides and families relish picnic parties need more attention due to visitors' pressure.

If students come here for studies and group discussion, other people have their own reasons, like enjoying leisure time, sports, walks, or simply to spend a peaceful afternoon.

But as the number of visitors grows, so does the pressure on the parks themselves. While the city continues to expand and tourism rises, the maintenance of these parks is becoming tedious in view of the irresponsible attitude of visitors.

"People who come from different areas and many among them are too careless and litter these parks with wrappers, empty tins, tissue papers and sometimes by throwing edibles brought for a picnic," said Muhammad Saleem, a visitor at Lake View Park. "When dustbins are there, why don't they use them?"

The Capital Development Authority (CDA), responsible for the upkeep of these parks, is aware of the challenge and deploys staff for parks' cleanliness. "Our staff works throughout the day in rotations to clean and maintain green spaces," said Shahid Kiyani, CDA's spokesperson. "But visitors' attitude is pathetic. They continue littering these places and show the least responsibility." Despite the CDA's efforts, cleaning teams often find themselves overwhelmed.

On busy days, especially weekends and public holidays, the number of visitors multiplies and so does the volume of littering, damaged plants and overused benches and swings." Muhammad Asif, another visitor, echoed similar concerns.

"The cleaning staff do their job, but how can they manage if people keep throwing garbage again and again. It's not just the workers' responsibility; it's ours too."

"Maintaining these spaces is an ongoing effort. Thousands visit here every day. It takes a lot to keep them clean and functional," said Director Parks, Muhammad Saleem. "We are doing our best, but we need public cooperation." He said the CDA tries to improve facilities and expand green areas, but keeping within our budget and human resources.

Another concern is vandalism. Some visitors damage park property, scribble on walls or misuse playground equipment. These acts, though carried out by a few, yet affect others too. Although the CDA runs awareness campaigns occasionally, visitors least bother to obey their advisories.

In this situation, preachers, parents and teachers can play a role to educate our elders and students to keep these places clean. Schools can contribute by organising trips that focus not just on fun but also on civic responsibility. Local volunteer groups sometimes organise clean-up drives.

Moreover, increasing the number of dustbins and placing them at convenient spots can help reduce littering. Regular feedback from park users through surveys or suggestion boxes can also provide insight into areas that need improvement