CDA tells IHC paper mulberry trees cut on legal, scientific grounds

The authority stated that paper mulberry trees are a major source of pollen allergies in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD:

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has told the Islamabad High Court that the decision to cut paper mulberry trees was not taken hastily or without legal mandate, but was based on scientific research, legal reasoning, and directives from the Prime Minister’s Office.

In its reply, the CDA said the action was well thought out, backed by expert recommendations, and involved public participation through hearings in F-9 Park, where it was agreed that trees harmful to the environment and public health should be replaced.

The authority said that under planning parameters, it is required to maintain at least 8 per cent green area, and Islamabad currently exceeds this standard.

The CDA stated that paper mulberry trees are a major source of pollen allergies in Islamabad. Scientific research shows that pollen from these trees causes severe allergies, including bronchial asthma. The trees were being replaced with environment-friendly indigenous species, as paper mulberry does not reduce pollution, negatively affects soil, and prevents other species from growing nearby.

Read: IHC extends ban on tree cutting in Islamabad till Feb 13

The authority said the action was supported by forestry experts and carried strong legal and administrative justification. An Environment Committee meeting on May 4, 2023, decided that harmful trees should be removed and replaced with eco-friendly species.

A public hearing on July 10, 2023, at the Citizen Club, F-9 Park, convinced the public that removal was necessary. The CDA said all removals were carried out according to the guidelines of experts appointed by the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

Regarding the construction of roads and infrastructure, the CDA said these are being developed in areas reserved under approved planning parameters, in line with the ICT Zoning Regulations, 1992 (amended). The authority also rejected claims about the Marka-e-Haq Monument, stating that the project has federal approval and funding from the Ministry of Finance.

The site was transferred to the Ministry of Planning and Development, and plants were relocated to Shakarparian, Lotus Park, and park peripheries before construction began. The monument’s design incorporates landscape planning to plant environment-friendly trees.

Read more: IHC orders CDA to halt tree cutting in Islamabad amid public outcry

The CDA said its authority to design and plan master programmes stems from the Capital Development Authority Ordinance, 1960. The master plan provides policies, guidelines, and land use allocations, and detailed sector layouts are prepared according to national planning standards.

Changes to the master plan fall under federal government authority, and the CDA has powers to prepare, approve, amend schemes, and dispose of land under sections 11, 12, 13, 19, and 49 of the CDA Ordinance.