31 Illegal Residential Units Identified at Margalla Hills National Park
Capital Development Authority (CDA) has recognized more than 30 illegal encroachments in Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP). MHNP is protected under the wildlife protection act of 1979 that was erected for the protection of the environment.
CDA identified and prepared a report on these encroachments after collecting data from multiple sources including Google Imagery and physical visitation. Illegal occupation of land in this area is not a new problem for CDA and they have been working to minimize the impact.
It is the responsibility of the local government along with public administrators to work their part for the protection of their environment. The wildlife can only be protected if the people join hands with the government and different non-profit and non-government organizations.
CDA is planning strict action against the land usurpers and they want to set an example for the future. CDA is going to take action under the wildlife protection act of 1979 and the people involved will be presented before the court.
These 31 encroached properties are spread across Margalla Hills National Park and these areas are getting more populated with time. 12 areas in Saidpur, 14 areas in Nurpur Shahan, and 5 areas in Gandhian regions of Margalla hills.
Climate Change Ministry is also involved in this matter as it affects their role in environmental protection. They will provide all the assistance necessary for the CDA to take action against the culprits of environmental damage.
CDA has plans to demarcate the land to stop these encroachments. These demarcations will be done with the help of the Survey of Pakistan (SOP).
Residents of Islamabad are also encouraged to report any unusual activity on the footrest of Margalla Hills. Any development that is not legally binding will be subjected to strict action from all the legal authorities involved.
