In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has mandated the closure of all restaurants within the nation’s cherished national parks, including the iconic Monal restaurant nestled in the picturesque Margalla Hills National Park.
Chaired by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, a three-judge bench overturned a previous ruling by the Islamabad High Court that had favored the Monal group’s operations within the park.
During the proceedings, Chief Justice Isa expressed profound concerns over the Capital Development Authority’s (CDA) oversight, highlighting a lack of awareness regarding the multitude of commercial ventures operating within the protected areas. The court challenged the competence of CDA officials, particularly noting discrepancies in the report presented by the authority, which erroneously included unrelated structures like the Pakistan-China Sports Complex and the National Art Council.
In response to these discrepancies, the court summoned the Chairman of the CDA for further clarification.
The apex court’s verdict mandates the complete dismantling of all restaurants within national parks within a stringent three-month timeline. While acknowledging the necessity to address the livelihoods of affected businesses, the court unequivocally emphasized the sanctity of preserving these natural reserves, reiterating that commercial activities have no place within them.
This decision marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s conservation efforts, reaffirming the judiciary’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s natural heritage for future generations.
