Tree removal approved and scientifically backed, IHC told

CDA says paper mulberry removal aimed at curbing spread of pollen allergies

ISLAMABAD:

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Tuesday informed the Islamabad High Court (IHC) that paper mulberry trees are being removed in the federal capital with the approval of the competent authority.

Submitting a six-page reply in a petition challenging the felling of trees, the CDA stated that the IHC had ordered the formation of an environmental committee in 2022, comprising representatives from various institutions, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The committee held meetings in 2023 to address the issue of pollen allergies, followed by a public hearing to assess the necessity of cutting paper mulberry trees.

The CDA said scientific research supports the removal of paper mulberry trees to curb the spread of pollen allergies. It added that journalist Saleem Safi also highlighted the issue in an article published in 2024, after which the Prime Minister's Office took notice and directed the CDA to take appropriate measures.

According to the authority, the decision was not taken in haste but was made after consultations, research, court directions, and meetings, with final approval from the Prime Minister's Office. It said eco-friendly trees are being planted as replacements for the removed paper mulberry trees.

The CDA further informed the court that tree-felling activities are carried out through regular and transparent tendering procedures, and any aggrieved party may seek legal remedy. It noted that paper mulberry trees were also removed along the Islamabad Highway in 2022.

Regarding the construction of the Marka-e-Haq monument, the CDA said the government had approved the project and the land was handed over to the Ministry of Planning prior to its commencement. The trees from the site were relocated to other areas, including Shakarparian.

In its response, the CDA requested the court to dismiss the petition seeking a halt to the felling of trees.