Daily Times

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has been moved by none other than the chief of a mainstream political party, Imran Khan of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), against the increasing municipal lawlessness in Bani Gala, Islamabad. It would appear that the environment of this serene place is deteriorating day by day, courtesy of the apathy shown by the concerned authorities. The PTI chief in his complaint had pointed out a number of irregularities including the failure of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) in checking unregulated growth of commercial plazas, illegal cutting of trees and large-scale encroachments on the botanical garden and park in Bani Gala. Taking notice of the complaint, Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar has sought a detailed report from CDA within 10 days.

The Supreme Court’s intervention in matters of public interest is always welcome as it may bring some respite for pollution-stricken Pakistanis. It is most disturbing to note that places with forest cover are falling victim to urban sprawl and are persistently shrinking. This trend is causing serious damage to the environment as well as the local flora and fauna. To add to the problem, commercial centres without proper sewerage systems are being set up, using the green spaces as parking lots and waste disposal sites.

Instead of following such an irrational commitment to commercialisation, the government should enforce strict implementation of the building code and ensure robust urban governance. Creating awareness about civic duties with regards to environmental protection amongst members of the general public is also vital.

In short, the government needs to take up the task of preventing the collapse of municipal governance across the country — for the sake of our environment and our future. At the same time, the CDA needs to come up with new city development plans to avoid wrath of the apex court and Islamabad’s residents. *