The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has taken decisive CDA tree cutting action against private developers in Islamabad’s Bhara Kahu area. Authorities swiftly halted land development activities after receiving reports of illegal forest encroachment and extensive tree cutting. Consequently, this proactive measure underscores the CDA’s unwavering commitment to preserving the capital’s vital natural environment and green spaces.
Encroachment Uncovered: CDA Takes Firm Stance
The CDA’s vigilant environment wing moved rapidly upon receiving credible information about the illicit chopping of trees within the designated reserved forest land (RF-8). Officials quickly confirmed that private developers had illegally cleared and leveled over 10 kanals of precious forest land, causing significant ecological damage by felling dozens of mature trees. Furthermore, this unauthorized activity led to immediate intervention from the authorities.
Shahid Kiani, the CDA spokesperson, confirmed that the authority confiscated all machinery found at the site. The developers faced a substantial fine of Rs7 million for cutting approximately 40 trees and over 100 shrubs. Subsequently, the illegal operation was brought to an immediate halt, preventing further environmental degradation.
Legal Proceedings and Future Protection
To ensure justice and deter future offenses, the CDA has filed a formal case before its magistrate. This aims at recovering the imposed fine and pursuing further legal action against those responsible for the tree cutting and extensive landscaping damage. Moreover, an FIR has been registered at the Bhara Kahu police station, initiating a criminal investigation.
Kiani emphatically stated, “We are committed to protecting Islamabad’s greenery, and strict action will be taken against anyone involved in illegal tree cutting.” He added that the CDA’s continuous efforts have demonstrably contributed to an overall increase in the capital’s green cover. In addition, officials highlighted that the CDA meticulously maintains detailed forest records, dating back to 1902 and 1935, which clearly demarcate all protected forest areas. These records confirm that the affected land explicitly falls within RF-8 Bhara Kahu.
Looking ahead, the CDA also affirmed that plantation activities are not only ongoing but will also be significantly expanded next month. This forms a crucial part of its broader, long-term afforestation drive, aimed at enhancing Islamabad’s ecological resilience.
