Friends of MHNP Concerned Over Efforts to Revisit Landmark Environmental Verdict

Friends of Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP) has expressed concern over recent proceedings that appear to revisit the landmark judicial decisions that led to the removal of Monal Restaurant and other commercial structures from within the Margalla Hills National Park.

The group noted that the Islamabad High Court’s 2022 judgment and the Supreme Court’s 2024 ruling represented a historic environmental victory for Pakistan.

The courts affirmed that National Parks exist for conservation, biodiversity protection, and public benefit, and that commercial interests cannot override environmental laws.

The Supreme Court ruling received widespread recognition from environmentalists, conservation advocates, and environmental law experts in Pakistan and abroad.

It was viewed as a progressive and globally relevant decision linking environmental protection to fundamental constitutional rights and the interests of future generations.

Friends of MHNP emphasized that the issue is not about a restaurant, but about protecting an important environmental precedent and ensuring that protected areas remain protected.

The organization also highlighted the unique role of MHNP as the only National Park in Pakistan supported by a large community-based volunteer conservation network.

Thousands of citizens have contributed over the years toward the protection, preservation, and restoration of the park.

According to the group, the former Monal site presents an opportunity for ecological restoration and the development of low-impact public facilities such as viewpoints, nature education spaces, and environmentally responsible visitor amenities.

Friends of MHNP urged all institutions to uphold the landmark environmental principles established by Pakistan’s superior courts and ensure the full implementation of the decisions aimed at protecting the Margalla Hills National Park.