Supreme Court Demands Report on Illegal Constructions in Margalla Hills.
Islamabad: The Supreme Court has directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to submit a report regarding illegal constructions in Margalla Hills.
A constitutional bench of the Supreme Court heard the case concerning unauthorized developments in the Margalla Hills. During the proceedings, the CDA’s lawyer and the Director General of Environment appeared before the court.
The lawyer representing Monal Restaurant argued that, despite their establishment being demolished following the court’s order, around 134 illegal hotels, restaurants, and kiosks continue to operate in Margalla Hills. Justice Jamal Mandokhail remarked that Margalla Hills is a protected area, and any form of construction there is deemed illegal.
Justice Mazhar inquired about the exact number of illegal structures still present in the area. The municipal corporation’s lawyer responded that 80 to 132 illegal constructions remain, adding that the Islamabad Club is also situated within the Margalla Hills National Park.
Justice Naeem noted that even the Supreme Court itself was built within the boundaries of Margalla National Park, according to the 1960 master plan. He suggested that the CDA first address the illegal constructions surrounding Monal Restaurant.
Justice Jamal Mandokhail questioned whether the court’s decision specifically targeted Monal Restaurant alone. He emphasized that the court had already laid down principles regarding construction in Margalla Hills and asked why the CDA was not fulfilling its responsibilities. Justice Musarrat further criticized the CDA for violating court orders.
The DG Environment informed the court that over 50 kiosks are still operational in the Margalla Hills, contributing to environmental issues. He noted that a prior court order had halted the demolition of these kiosks.
Subsequently, the constitutional bench instructed the CDA to submit a detailed report on the illegal constructions in Margalla Hills.
