IHC Orders CDA to Stop Tree Cutting in Islamabad

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday restrained the Capital Development Authority (CDA) from cutting trees in the federal capital and directed a detailed report on the matter, following a petition highlighting environmental concerns.

The petition, filed by Muhammad Naveed Ahmed, requested the court to stop what he described as unlawful tree felling in Islamabad.

During the hearing, the petitioner’s lawyer argued that the large-scale cutting of trees violated the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, caused environmental damage, and threatened the city’s ecological balance.

The court summoned the Assistant Attorney General to explain the rationale behind the tree removal.

Notices were issued to the CDA, Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA), and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, asking for parawise replies and a comprehensive report by the next hearing.

Until further orders, the court barred the CDA from conducting any tree-cutting activities, and the matter was adjourned to February 2.

Reports indicate that significant tree removal has taken place in areas including Shakarparian, where acres of green cover have been cleared.

The CDA defended its actions, stating that 29,115 paper mulberry trees were removed under a government-approved initiative, citing their role in causing pollen allergies.

Federal Minister for Climate Change, Dr. Musadik Malik, assured that for every tree cut, three new trees would be planted.

He emphasized that tree removal followed scientific assessment and that indigenous species were being planted as part of reforestation efforts. Dr. Malik warned that strict action would be taken if any violation of environmental laws was found.