Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced on Friday the launch of the Margalla Trail Patrol by the government to safeguard the picturesque trails of Margalla Hills in Islamabad.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, he emphasized that this initiative aims primarily at ensuring the safety of foreigners who frequently visit these scenic locations. Highlighting the security measures, the Interior Minister mentioned the deployment of trail bikes, horse patrols, and foot patrols.
We're launching the *Margalla Trail Patrol* to secure the beautiful trails of Margalla, especially for the safety of foreigners who love exploring them. Our tri-pronged security cover includes Trail Motorcycles, mounted Police (horses), and foot patrolling. pic.twitter.com/4emEH1u6wP
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) April 25, 2024
Earlier, the Wildlife Department confirmed the presence of five leopards in the hiking trails and National Park of Islamabad.
Subsequently, the Capital Development Authority took the precautionary measure of closing hiking trail 3 of the Margalla Hills in Islamabad due to leopard sightings in the vicinity. A spokesperson for the Wildlife Protection Board confirmed the leopard sightings and stated that the closure of the trail was essential for public safety.
Prior to this incident, a venomous snake was spotted in the Margalla Hills of Islamabad, prompting authorities to issue warnings about the potential danger posed by the reptile if provoked.
Guess who came to visit our visitor information centre on trail 5? Yes it’s a Krait: venomous, neurotoxins which induce paralysis. Krait not aggressive unless you mess with it! Venom can kill a human being in hours though. They come out in rainy season! @WildlifeBoard pic.twitter.com/bGXYQk5y7c
— Rina S Khan Satti (@rinasaeed) September 8, 2021
