The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has resolved to plant 10 million trees in the Margalla Hills, with a budget exceeding Rs. 2 billion, per a national daily report.
Details reveal that the civic authority has drafted a PC-1 for the project to enrich biodiversity and increase green coverage in the Margalla Hills. The CDA is currently presenting the PC-1 to the federal government to secure funding in the upcoming fiscal year 2024-25 through the public sector development program. The estimated cost for the project stands at Rs. 2,158.614 million.
The PC-1 for the project, titled “Enhancing Biodiversity and Green Cover by Managing Natural Resources, Maintenance, and Rehabilitation of the Landscape of Margalla Hills National Park,” has been prepared by the environment wing of the CDA. It is slated for implementation over five years.
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According to PC-1, the project’s main objective is to improve the flora and fauna of the national park while preserving it to attract both the public and tourists. Additionally, it aims to mitigate the effects of climate change and enhance the park’s aesthetics.
The document states, “This national park, home to a variety of flora and fauna, not only provides recreational and research opportunities but also plays a vital role in maintaining the environment of the capital. The proximity to the capital has further increased the government’s interest in protecting and improving the national park’s soil, flora, and fauna.”
The PC-1 highlights the rapid loss of green cover in Islamabad due to construction activities and other environmental issues, such as depleting groundwater.
The park is currently affected by invasive species, including lantana and paper mulberry, covering 7,150 acres of land, hindering local species’ growth.
The mountains serve as a watershed and a primary source of freshwater. However, due to insufficient green cover, a significant amount of water is wasted through high run-off.
Priority will be given to local species like ‘chir pine,’ ‘amaltas,’ and ‘kachnar,’ with plans to hire guards for tree protection. Additionally, the CDA plans to construct check dams and water ponds within the park.
