CDA starts action against encroachments in Margalla Hills area

[Salman]

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has started action for removal of encroachments in Margalla Hills of the federal capital.

To start with the operation was launched in Shah Allah Ditta area of the Margalla Hills while the remaining encroachers were warned to end illegal occupation of the land.

In order to protect and regulate Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP) and Zoning Regulations in letter and spirit a joint detailed survey was conducted in Margalla Hills National

Park Area and Zone-III of Islamabad.

During the survey it was noticed that the people have encroached CDA land and erected illegal structures while some unauthorized approach roads have also been identified, which were against the Margalla Hills National Park Area Act-1979.

After taking notice of the illegal structures and approach roads in the light of survey report, the CDA Chairman Maroof Afzal directed the concerned formations of the Authority for carrying out joint operation.

During the operation against encroachments the concerned formations have removed illegally constructed sheds and closed approach roads in Zone-III on CDA acquired land. CDA’s Environment Wing, Planning Wing and Enforcement Directorate participated in the operation.

The official sources said that complaints are being lodged against violators in the concerned police stations.

The CDA has warned encroachers and violators to demolish their illegal structures otherwise it in collaboration with ICT Administration and Islamabad police would carry out joint operations against all kinds of encroachments soon after Eidul Fitr.

Taking notice of encroachments, the civic body has constituted a joint team of Environment Protection Unit (deputed for the protection of Margalla Hills National Park Area) of Environment Wing, Planning Wing and Enforcement Directorate for removal of illegal structures in the areas during an exclusive operation. CDA is also taking legal action against encroachers and in this regard complaints are being lodged against violators in the concerned police stations.

Margalla Hills highlights the green character and enhance the green cover of the area due to which Margalla Hills have been declared National Park Area, where all kinds of construction and commercial activities are not allowed, said CDA chairman.