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       ISLAMABAD: After getting directions from prime minister to address the issue of pollen allergy in federal capital, stakeholders have decided to cut approximately 80,000 to 100,000 wild mulberry trees and restrict the sale of parthenium plants in various flower shops across the city.

       PM’s National Coordinator on health Dr Mukhtar Ahmed Bharat said that proactive measures were being ensured in Islamabad to control pollen allergy.

       In a statement, he said that according to environmental experts, wild mulberry was the most significant source of allergy due to its abundance and to eliminate allergies from Islamabad, therefore, wild mulberry trees were being removed in phases.

       “There are approximately 80,000 to 100,000 wild mulberry trees, which will be removed and, in their place, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has already planted one million eco-friendly trees as part of the allergy eradication plan,” Dr Bharath said.

       He said the CDA would plant an additional 300,000 to 400,000 trees, while by mid-year, paper mulberry will also be completely eradicated.

       According to Dr. Bharath, the CDA has taken special measures to control allergies at F-9 Park in Islamabad, while a plan has been devised to restrict the sale of parthenium plants in various flower shops across the city.

       “Parthenium, a type of toxic weed, is a major cause of respiratory allergies. The Directorate of Municipal Administration has been informed to enforce a strict ban on this plant in floral arrangements,” he explained.

       Published in Dawn, December 6th, 2024