Margalla Hills: Concrete Jungle Ends at Monal, but Another Project Awaits

Peace, laughter, joy, and delightful moments—everyone loved going to Monal for these reasons. Many people who preferred solitude would quietly celebrate their own company in the embrace of Margalla Hills. Both local and foreign tourists have cherished this spot. Still, amidst the laughter and happiness, a cry for help echoed through the natural park due to overwhelming pollution and traffic congestion, turning a once-clean environment into a dumping ground.

In 2005, the CDA added Monal to Margalla Hills, boosting tourism, but over time, there was a noticeable decline in wildlife. The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board took legal action to protect Margalla Hills, and ultimately, the Supreme Court decided to close Monal. This sparked an uproar and criticism as if the breath of Islamabad’s citizens was being taken away. However, many who loved Margalla Hills welcomed the decision, including those who couldn’t afford to visit Monal.

Journalist Sophia Siddiqui, present at the site, appreciated the decision, acknowledging the delicious food and good times spent with friends, but emphasized that preserving the natural environment is crucial for everyone. Many other journalists largely echoed this sentiment, and citizens passing by seemed pleased that a pleasant environment would be restored.

However, it’s true that this space was not accessible to everyone. While the construction was being demolished, and cranes were busy at work, we posed a question to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board: What was the necessity for this action, and what will happen now?

Deputy Director of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, Sakhawat, explained that the concrete jungle was destroying plant and tree species, along with wildlife. It is our responsibility to save Margalla Hills, and we will completely remove these constructions to restore a natural environment, planting cedar and pine trees to create an accessible natural park. A research center will also be established for students to conduct research.

It was indeed hot when we stood there observing the demolition, while the nearby dense forest felt different. Let’s hope that instead of concrete, lush greenery will thrive here, but one lingering question remains: Will the other hotels and constructions besides Monal also be removed, or will the concrete jungle persist, allowing the mafia to reign?