Margalla Hills Under Siege: 134 Illegal Hotels, Restaurants, and Kiosks Defy Supreme Court Orders

Islamabad (Daily Pakistan Online) Despite the Supreme Court’s directives to demolish illegal structures in Margalla Hills, around 134 hotels, restaurants, and kiosks continue to operate in the protected area. Recently, Justice Jamal Mandokhel emphasized that all constructions in Margalla Hills are illegal, as the area is a protected zone.

During a hearing, Justice Mazhar inquired about the number of illegal constructions in Margalla Hills. In response, the Municipal Corporation’s lawyer estimated that between 80 to 132 constructions are currently being built in the area. Additionally, the Islamabad Club is also located within the Margalla Hills National Park.

Justice Naeem pointed out that even the Supreme Court building is situated within the boundaries of the Margalla National Park, as per the 1960 master plan. He suggested that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) should focus on addressing the illegal constructions around Monal Restaurant.

The Director General of Environment informed the court that over 50 Zahid kiosks are operating in Margalla Hills, causing environmental concerns. The court’s orders had previously prevented the demolition of these kiosks.

The constitutional bench has now sought a report from the CDA on the illegal constructions in Margalla Hills, marking a significant step towards addressing the long-standing issue of encroachment in the protected area.