ISLAMABAD: A large group of environmental, climate and health journalists and climate activists gathered at the ruins of Monal Restaurant in Margalla Hills to participate in a plantation drive, nature through their storytelling and visual coverage. Pledged to protect national parks and habitats. .
Organized by the Climate Change Journalists Group of Islamabad and supported by the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), the initiative saw dozens of saplings, including cedars and other native trees planted on the roofs of the collapsed structures. were gone Journalists, environmental activists, and students vowed to return for more reforestation efforts after clearing the concrete structure.
Addressing the function, IWMB Chairperson Reena Saeed Khan emphasized the board’s determination to restore the Margalla Viewpoint to its natural green landscape following the Supreme Court’s directive. “We are committed to transforming this vision into a place where people can reconnect with nature, learn about its importance, and contribute to its conservation,” said Reena Saeed Khan. Reena Saeed Khan said.
He highlighted the importance of restoring ecosystems and biodiversity within the Margalla Hills National Park and emphasized the IWMB’s commitment to implementing conservation goals.
Journalists and students planted trees, tagging them with their names, symbolizing their commitment to the environment. The event marks the start of a wider reforestation campaign that will continue through March, with peak activity planned for the spring season. In partnership with the Ministry of Climate Change and WWF Pakistan, IWMB aims to replant the Margalla Viewpoint using native species such as Cher Pine, Amlatas and Sentha.
The plantation drive also aims to involve school children, diplomats, civil society members, and people from all walks of life. “IWMB plans to start Phase 2 of the project once funding is secured, and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is completed and approved,” added Reena Saeed Khan. Saeed Khan added.
Apart from planting Cher, Pine, Sunatha, Kitchenar and Amaltas trees, the Board envisages to transform the site into a vibrant green space where biodiversity thrives and public awareness about environmental conservation increases. The IWMB’s initiative is part of a wider effort to restore the Margalla Hills National Park, highlighting the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation and sustainable practices.