Supreme Court Orders Removal of Commercial Activities in Margalla Hills National Park

Islamabad 01-07-2024: The Supreme Court of Pakistan, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, has ordered the cessation of commercial activities within the Margalla Hills National Park. The verdict, delivered in the combined petitions of the Monal Group of Companies and the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, mandates the vacating of restaurants and commercial entities operating within the national park's boundaries.

The Monal Group of Companies, which operates the Monal Restaurant, along with other establishments like La Montana and Gloria Jeans, have been granted a three-month period to vacate their premises. This decision follows a prior order which highlighted the illegal leasing and operations contrary to the Islamabad Wildlife (Protection, Preservation, Conservation, and Management) Ordinance, 1979.

Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa emphasized the importance of preserving the natural environment and mandated that small kiosks operating within the park must obtain proper licenses and adhere to strict environmental guidelines, including waste management and fire safety measures.

The Court also scrutinized the role of the Remount, Veterinary, and Farms Directorate, part of the Pakistan Army, which had issued lease agreements for commercial activities without legal authority. The Directorate’s non-compliance in producing original lease documents was noted, with further action anticipated in detailed reasons to follow.

In an effort to ensure effective management and conservation, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has been instructed to support the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board. The court suggested including a CDA officer knowledgeable in conservation and environment on the board, and also considered the inclusion of World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) Pakistan for their facilitative role in preserving the national park.

The Supreme Court's decision upholds the Islamabad High Court’s earlier ruling, reinforcing the commitment to conservation and legal compliance within national parks. All related petitions and civil miscellaneous applications have been disposed of accordingly.

This ruling highlights the judiciary's proactive stance on environmental conservation and the enforcement of legal frameworks to protect natural habitats from commercial exploitation.

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