ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) held a public hearing on Monday to address the restoration of the ecosystem and the eradication of wild mulberry and invasive plants.
The event, organized by the CDA Environment Wing, took place at Gandhara Citizen Club in F-9 Park, Islamabad, and was attended by various officials, including Member Environment, DG Environment, DG Inspection, Director Regional, and other CDA officers.
According to sources, the public hearing saw the participation of individuals from private and public institutions, as well as citizens from diverse backgrounds.
Furthermore, notable attendees included Nighat, Head of Allergy Center NIH, Islamabad, Waqar Zakaria, Member of Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, Muhammad Yaqoob, DIG Forest, Muhammad Munir, environmentalist, Dr. Parvez, environmentalist, and others.
During the hearing, participants discussed the presence of invasive plant species in different areas of Islamabad.
Dr. Parvez highlighted the rapid decline of the groundwater level caused by the proliferation of paper mulberry trees.
Furthermore, Nighat emphasized the allergies and health conditions triggered by poisonous plants, underscoring the importance of maintaining a balanced ecosystem.
Besides, the Environmental experts explained the ecological relationships between plants, animals, and humans, emphasizing that invasive plants such as paper mulberry, Conocarpus, lantana, and parthenium pose economic and environmental threats.
The participants noted that the invasive plants are responsible for issues, including the destruction of other species, disruption of water facilities and waterways, harm to wildlife, the transmission of airborne diseases to humans, and other adverse effects on human life.
Citizens who attended the seminar were also allowed to express their views on the matter.
The event emphasized the significance and benefits of expanding green areas, planting new trees, and addressing environmental pollution.
Source: Business Recorder
