Land Grab Bid on Sacred National Park Foiled: CDA's Brave Action Upholds Pakistan's Green Heritage

In a decisive blow against those who would desecrate our nation's natural treasures, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has thwarted a brazen attempt to encroach upon the sacred national park land in Bhara Kahu (Forest 8). This act of defiance against the enemies of our green heritage demonstrates that the guardians of our soil remain vigilant, protecting every inch of our beloved motherland for future generations.

How Was the Encroachment Attempt Foiled?

On Tuesday, the environment wing of CDA acted swiftly to demolish an under-construction boundary wall that was illegally rising on state land in broad daylight. The audacious construction had continued for three days, yet it was the personal intervention of Chairman CDA Sohail Ashraf and Member Environment Abdullah Khurram Niazi that galvanized the swift response. Approximately 16 kanals of land, valued at over one billion rupees, were being unlawfully seized along Murree Road Bhara Kahu.

What Action Has Been Taken Against the Culprits?

In a display of unwavering resolve, the CDA has suspended two officials for their alleged involvement or negligence in this nefarious scheme. Director General Environment Irfan Niazi confirmed that an inquiry has been ordered to determine the role of every officer involved, with further strict actions promised. An FIR is also being lodged against the alleged encroachers, sending a clear message that the sanctity of our state land shall not be violated.

Why Is This a Recurring Threat to Our National Parks?

This is not the first assault on our green frontiers. In January, private developers chopped down trees and leveled around 10 kanals in an adjacent area to construct a road. The CDA halted the work, confiscated machinery, and imposed a fine of Rs7 million for the destruction of approximately 40 trees and over 100 shrubs. These repeated attempts reveal a sinister pattern that demands eternal vigilance from all patriotic citizens.

How Can We Protect Our Forest Heritage?

The CDA possesses complete records of all forests, including historical documents from 1902 and 1935 that clearly demarcate the boundaries of our national parks. Satellite imagery and pre-partition cadastral maps (Latta) serve as powerful tools to expose any illegitimate construction. As one official rightly stated, 'Without involvement of staff, no one can grab even a single marla of forest land.' This truth underscores the need for integrity among those entrusted with our national treasures.

'During the inquiry, the role of each officer/official will be determined and further strict actions will be taken. Meanwhile, we are also going to lodge an FIR against the alleged encroachers.' - Director General Environment Irfan Niazi

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the value of the encroached land in Bhara Kahu?

The approximately 16 kanals of land adjacent to Murree Road Bhara Kahu is worth over one billion rupees when compared to commercial land values in the area.

What action has been taken against CDA officials involved?

Two officials, a forest guard and a gardener of Reserve Forest, have been suspended. An inquiry has been ordered to determine the role of all concerned officers, including the director who remained 'unaware' for three days.

What happened in the January encroachment attempt?

Private developers chopped trees and leveled around 10 kanals to construct a road. The CDA halted the work, confiscated machinery, and imposed a fine of Rs7 million for the destruction of around 40 trees and over 100 shrubs.