'Unchecked development endangers capital's future'

Webinar calls for reforms, citizen engagement to curb environmental loss

ISLAMABAD:

Concerned citizens and experts speaking at a webinar raised apprehensions over the growing environmental crisis in Islamabad, caused by rapid, unplanned and largely irreversible urban development by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and various housing societies in violation of zoning rules and regulations.

Speakers stressed that the city's green spaces were steadily being replaced by concrete due to weak governance, elite capture and a persistent conflict between populist decision-making and professional, science-based planning.

A key outcome of the discussion was a strong call for a new, collaborative approach to sustainable urban development through the establishment of a dedicated, Islamabad-focused think tank. Participants emphasised the need to bring together independent professionals, policymakers, civil society and creative communities, including architects, designers and artists, to develop long-term, people-centred solutions.

The webinar underscored that environmental degradation was not only an ecological issue but also a major public health concern, making citizen engagement and collective responsibility essential. The session concluded with a shared resolve that Islamabad's green future depends on informed decision-making, institutional reform and sustained public participation in shaping the city's development trajectory.

The thought-provoking webinar was organised by the Development Communications Network (Devcom-Pakistan) on Saturday on the theme "Islamabad's Green Future – Coping with Irrational Development".

It brought together environmental experts, policymakers, civil society members and concerned citizens to deliberate on the growing environmental challenges facing Pakistan's capital.

Renowned environmental expert Dr Tariq Banuri highlighted that environmental protection efforts were being undermined by institutional weaknesses, as well as the marginalisation, and at times harassment, of environmental professionals and activists working to safeguard protected hills, forests and wildlife habitats.

Participants agreed that without transparent, democratic and inclusive governance, Islamabad's ecological balance would continue to deteriorate. Dr Banuri focused on the environmental consequences of rapid and often unplanned urban development and underscored the urgent need for sustainable governance models that balance economic growth with environmental conservation.