Margalla Ridge Rewilding project launched

Islamabad:Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) today welcomed MNA Isphandyar M. Bhandara, renowned journalist Nasim Zehra, and activist Nilofer Qazi, along with dozens of school children, to the rewilding project of Margalla Ridge, formerly the Monal site.

The guests participated in a tree-planting ceremony, planting local Chir Pine saplings, and joined the campaign to rehabilitate the ridge and reintegrate it into Margallah Hills National Park, as per Supreme Court orders.

IWMB has launched a weekly campaign, inviting school children and prominent citizens of Islamabad to plant local trees at the site. The campaign aims to restore the ridge to its former glory, as a green Margalla viewpoint offering the public free access.

"We are committed to preserving and protecting our natural heritage," said [Name], Chairperson, IWMB. "This project is a testament to our commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement and our deep respect for rule of law. We are following and implementing Supreme Court orders”.

The rewilding project is being implemented in phases. Phase 1, currently underway, focuses on ensuring the site is accessible and safe for the public. Immediate commencement of site repairs, including installation of safety grills, benches, parking facilities, site clearing, and greening, has begun.

Phase 2 will commence after securing funding and preparing and approving the Environmental Impact Assessment. The Margalla Viewpoint is expected to open to the public by Eid holidays later this year.