Public Intrusion Ruins Greenbelts
Sumaira FH Published July 05, 2020 | 02:00 PM
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Jul, 2020 ) :Greenbelts that had been the hallmark of the Islamabad - The Beautiful - have started developing rough patches, mainly due to the increased use by the residents, facing mobility restrictions amid the coronavirus pandemic.
It is high time for the Environment Department of Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) to come into action and start imposing heavy fines on those who had been illegally trespassing upon the facilities and dampening their glow and luster.
"The landscaping of greenbelts and parks is imperative to enhance beauty of the city, besides ensuring healthy environment to the residents who have already been battling with a global pandemic," said Raja Shrafat, a senior Islooiite from the sector G-7 while talking to APP on Sunday.
Pointing out the casual upkeep of greenbelts, he said constant use by people, had adversely impacted the green-spots of the city, turning into barren areas with their eco-unfriendly behaviours.
He said some even dared to come with their animals and pets and let them freely graze and play with greenbelts. It was sheer violation of the environmental laws and should be dealt strictly, he added.
Sharafat urged the city authorities to rectify the situation by slapping fines on the violators.
"Growth of wild shrubs is also a major issue that gives greenbelts a rough look," he said while calling for regular pruning of the greenbelts to enhance the clean and green environment.
Umar Khan, a capital-based journalist, said Islamabad once ranked the second in the list of world's most beautiful capitals a half decade ago, had now been turned into an 'uncharming' place due to less focus on beautification initiatives.
"Garbage and bushes have become a common sight in the capital city, which negates the slogan- 'Islamabad- The Beautiful' and speaks about civic authorities' passion for green environment," he regretted.
He said Islamabad still ranked atop of other cities of country, but there was a dire need to take remedial steps on war-footing basis to ensure extensive beautification of the city.
Ajmal Khan, a resident, who especially came to the greenbelt near sector F-6 along with his friends, said this was a perfect place to enjoy cool evenings during these days of Coronavirus pandemic.
"It is not easy to spend evening time indoor as we live in a very congested locality," said Yusuf Maseeh from G-6, justifying the use of greenbelt as a recreational spot.
"We have been utilizing all the resources at our disposal to ensure the maintenance of greenbelts across the capital city," MCI Director Environment Irfan Niazi told APP.
He said trimming of shrubs and grass at the greenbelts and parks, are being done on regular basis. Actions against the violators were also being taken, he added.
He asked the residents to avoid any damage to the greenbelts in sectors. He said the department was unable to upgrade its machinery due to the shortage of funds.
/395
Recent Stories
Punjab CM inaugurates Pakistan’s first Virtual Women Police Station
Dutch model Donny Roelvink embraces Islam
Experts raise concerns over introduction of 10-stick packs
Iranian president arrives in Karachi
Law Minister expresses Govt's resolve to address issue of missing persons
Rizwan’s batting order may be changed: Sources
Nawaz Sharif to visit Guangzhou exhibition in China
FM Dar not traveling to China: Foreign Office
PM takes notice of deliberate delay in tax cases
Iranian President visits Allama Iqbal’s mausoleum
Iranian President arrives in Lahore today
Currency Rate In Pakistan - Dollar, Euro, Pound, Riyal Rates On 23 April 2024
More Stories From Pakistan
-
Iranian President reiterates commitment to promote bilateral relation with Pakistan
1 hour ago -
KP CM chairs meeting of Integrated Security Architecture’s apex committee
2 hours ago -
President Raisi accorded warm welcome on arrival in Karachi
3 hours ago -
Spending quality time in nature may lower heart disease, diabetes risk: Study
3 hours ago -
President Raisi pays respects at Quaid's mausoleum
3 hours ago -
FM Dar speaks to overseas Pakistanis via Zoom
3 hours ago
-
Govt to form parliamentary committee to end violence in Balochistan: CM Bugti
3 hours ago -
LESCO collects over Rs 4.48m from 104 defaulters in 24 hours
3 hours ago -
Dr. Jamileh calls for role of Muslim women for promotion of Islamic culture
3 hours ago -
LESCO detects 73,722 power pilferers in 217 days
3 hours ago -
Farmers express concerns on low wheat price in market
3 hours ago -
CEO SEPCO for taking action against those involve in over billing & power theft
4 hours ago