Pak EPA Launches Inquiry into Tree Cutting at Shakarparian

The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak EPA) has taken notice of reports regarding tree cutting in Islamabad and initiated an inquiry into the matter. An EPA inspection team visited the Garden Avenue area of Shakarparian to assess the situation following complaints received from the public about the removal of trees.

During the visit, the EPA team collected details from officials of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) regarding the tree-cutting activity. Pak EPA Focal Person Dr Zaigham said complaints were received specifically about tree cutting at Garden Avenue, prompting the environmental watchdog to step in and examine the issue on ground.

Dr Zaigham said the Environmental Protection Agency has formally started investigations to determine the facts of the case. He added that authorities are examining how many trees were approved for cutting under the tender, how many were actually cut by the contractor, and whether the process followed environmental regulations.

Pak EPA has also sought details from CDA regarding the mitigation plan and the types of trees being planted as replacements.

Earlier, the CDA had rejected allegations of indiscriminate tree cutting in the National Park area, stating that only paper mulberry trees were removed at Shakarparian under court orders due to their role in causing pollen allergies. The authority said a total of 8,700 paper mulberry trees were cut through a formal tendering process and denied claims of forest clearance circulated on social media.

CDA further announced that a compensatory plantation drive has been launched, under which three saplings are being planted for every tree removed. According to the authority, a total of 30,000 trees will be planted in the Shakarparian area, and a plantation campaign has already been initiated with participation from CDA officials, media representatives, and members of civil society.