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       ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) in partnership with World Wildlife Fund (WWF) on Thursday unveiled plans for the new Margalla Viewpoint, within Margalla Hills National Park, offering free access to visitors.

       “This project is dedicated to the public on land within Margalla Hills National Park,” said Rina Saeed Khan, the chairperson of IWMB. Recent court orders led to the dismantling of large restaurants on the ridge, which were deemed encroachments on the protected land.

       The Supreme Court of Pakistan upheld the landmark judgement by Islamabad High Court.

       IWMB said the first phase of the Margalla Viewpoint project was underway, focusing on greening existing terraces with native trees and shrubs and developing visitor parking facilities on the ridge. The project’s master plan was currently being drafted by an implementation committee, which has appointed architects, including IWMB member and pro bono lead architect Imrana Tiwana.

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       Project is dedicated to public on land within Margalla Hills National Park, says IWMB chief

       In collaboration with WWF-Pakistan, work has also begun on establishing a Margalla Hills Information and Conservation Centre, where WWF would set up educational facilities and lead fundraising efforts for ecological restoration of the ridge.

       According to IWMB, phase two set to commence following the completion of the master plan and Environmental Impact Assessment, would introduce additional amenities like public viewpoints and picnic spots.

       “The entire project is expected to be completed within a year and aimed to restore and re-wild the ridge and nearby areas with native flora, aiding in the rehabilitation of local ecosystems and landscapes,” said Ms Khan.

       Earlier in August, the Supreme Court ordered the removal of these restaurants. In its detailed order, the apex court directed the IWMB to take possession of the restaurants namely Monal, La Montana and Gloria Jeans and obligated the CDA and the police to assist the wildlife board.

       The Supreme Court had ordered to raze Monal and La Montana eateries situated inside the Margalla Hills National Park to restore the affected area to its natural habitat.

       Published in Dawn, November 1st, 2024