In recent days, Islamabad’s beauty is increasingly visible through infrastructure development; however, alongside this progress, a serious and alarming trend is underway. According to reports, thousands of trees are being cut down in various parts of the federal capital, particularly around Shakarparian and the Islamabad Expressway. This issue has rapidly become a centre of public attention and concern.
Islamabad has long been known for its natural beauty and green landscape. Today, however, people from all walks of life are deeply disturbed, questioning why the city’s natural charm is being destroyed. This concern is justified, especially when Pakistan is already facing a severe shortage of trees. Major cities frequently suffer from smog and air pollution. Lahore, for example, has repeatedly ranked among the world’s most polluted cities, which should serve as a wake-up call.
Environmental experts emphasise that large-scale tree plantation drives are essential to combat pollution and restore ecological balance. Even if millions, or even billions, of trees were planted today, it would still not be enough. In this context, the sudden and large-scale tree cutting by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) appears less like development and more like an assault on nature.
The seriousness of the situation is evident from the fact that the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, has taken notice of the indiscriminate tree cutting. This step is commendable, but taking notice alone is not sufficient; effective implementation and accountability must follow. The entire process of tree removal should be conducted under the strict supervision of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA), with all stakeholders involved.
Instead of unnecessary and hasty tree cutting, the issue demands a wise, scientific, and sustainable approach. Different species of wild mulberry trees should be carefully evaluated, practical measures adopted to address pollen allergies, and public awareness campaigns launched during the pollen season. Uprooting trees from their roots is not a solution; it risks creating a new environmental crisis.
At the international level, Pakistan must learn from countries where cutting even a single tree results in heavy fines and strict penalties. In contrast, thousands of trees are felled here with little accountability.
It is hoped that following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s intervention, not only will this process be halted, but a comprehensive environmental policy will also be introduced — one that ensures a balance between development and nature, so that Islamabad can remain a green, sustainable, and environmentally secure capital city.
