Islamabad Launches Plantation Drive to Restore Margalla Hills Ecosystem

Strategic Insights -

The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), in collaboration with the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) and the Zoological Survey of Pakistan (ZSP), has initiated a plantation drive in Margalla Hills National Park to revitalize the park's natural ecosystem and reinforce conservation efforts. This collaborative effort aims to boost biodiversity and counter climate change by increasing tree cover in the capital's vital 'green lungs'. Local communities, students, and volunteers participated actively in the plantation drive, demonstrating the widespread support for the initiative. Senior officials, including Aamir Abbas Khan, Director (A, L/E), Mohsina Zubair, Director (Lab/NEQS), and Rana Asif, Deputy Director (A/F), were present at the event, highlighting the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) launched a plantation drive in Margalla Hills National Park in collaboration with the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) and the Zoological Survey of Pakistan (ZSP).
  • The initiative aims to restore the park's natural ecosystem, strengthen conservation efforts, enhance biodiversity, and combat climate change through increased tree cover.
  • The participation of students, volunteers, and local communities in the plantation drive underscores the commitment to community involvement in environmental conservation.
  • Senior officials, including Aamir Abbas Khan, Director (A, L/E), Mohsina Zubair, Director (Lab/NEQS), and Rana Asif, Deputy Director (A/F), joined the plantation activity to emphasize the importance of community participation.
  • IWMB spokesperson highlighted the critical role of preserving forests in safeguarding wildlife and ensuring a healthier, greener future for generations to come.
  • The IWMB is committed to ongoing conservation measures in Margalla Hills and urges the public to support initiatives like this to build climate resilience across the country.

Statistics:

  • A significant number of people, including students, volunteers, and local communities, participated in the plantation drive.
  • The participation of interns, including Mahnoor Idrees and Zahid ul Rehman, and senior officials emphasizes the inclusive nature of the initiative.
  • The ongoing conservation efforts in Margalla Hills are critical to preserving the natural ecosystem and mitigating the impact of climate change.

Sources:

  • Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB)
  • Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA)
  • Zoological Survey of Pakistan (ZSP)