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ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday expressed strong displeasure over continued tree cutting in the federal capital despite restraining orders, warning of contempt proceedings if violations persist.
The case was heard by Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro, while petitioners were represented by advocates Mudassar Latif Abbasi and Umair Asad.
During the hearing, Abbasi informed the court that despite injunction orders issued on January 15 and April 8, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) continued with cutting trees. At this, Justice Soomro expressed serious concern and remarked that although no contempt proceedings had been initiated over the past year, even a single tree cut in violation of court orders would now lead to such action.
The petitioner’s counsel further argued that the CDA, in its para-wise comments, failed to demonstrate that the trees were cut based on any expert assessment. He alleged that more than 30,000 trees had been felled in Islamabad under the pretext of removing paper mulberry trees, without proper verification.
Abbasi also pointed out that prior approval from the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency was mandatory but had not been obtained. He added that the agency itself acknowledged this lapse in its submitted comments, prompting further concern from the bench.
The court was told that no satellite survey or scientific mechanism was employed to confirm whether the removed trees were indeed paper mulberry. Questioning the CDA’s actions, Justice Soomro asked its counsel whether any expert opinion had been sought before undertaking the large-scale cutting.
Before adjourning the hearing, Justice Soomro reiterated that any further tree cutting before the conclusion of the case would result in contempt proceedings. He also remarked that Islamabad remains one of the few beautiful cities in Pakistan and urged authorities to preserve it for its residents. The hearing was adjourned till next Thursday.
