by Raja Faisal
ISLAMABAD: Rampant deforestation due to ongoing construction projects as well as housing societies is slowly defacing Islamabad, causing an adverse effect on the environment.
This deforestation has continued despite the best efforts of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to secure the environment, which is being affected equally by new dwelling projects, housing schemes and road expansion projects.
The effects are compounded in monsoon. During monsoon, heavy rains and wind storms accumulate to weaken trees internally as well as externally. Rains soften the surface, causing the roots inside the soil to lose grip, while winds weaken the stem and branches with constant shaking. The weaken trees, if not taken care of, would resultantly fall.
Over a year ago, CDA chairman directed the environment wing to accelerate the pace of beautification projects in the capital. However, this beautification urgently requires continued maintenance efforts.
Talking to Pakistan Today, CDA Spokesman Mazhar Hussain said that CDA makes sure that the housing societies follow the already defined regulations regarding the environment.
“As it is monsoon season, the grass grows swiftly and we face surface softening but our employees are working tirelessly to maintain grass levels as well to give support to weaker trees by using up-to-date methods”, he added.
