IHC Seeks Report from CDA on Contempt Plea Over Tree Cutting in Islamabad
The Islamabad High Court on Monday sought a detailed report from the Capital Development Authority chairman and other respondents over a contempt of court petition alleging violation of its restraining order against tree felling in the federal capital.
The hearing was conducted by Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas, who issued notices to relevant parties and adjourned proceedings indefinitely after directing authorities to submit their responses.
The petition, filed by Muhammad Naveed Ahmed, contends that despite a clear court order issued on January 15, 2026, prohibiting tree cutting, the CDA has proceeded with the expansion of Ataturk Avenue from D-Chowk to Ayub Chowk.
Concerns Over Environmental Damage
According to the petitioner’s counsel, the project involves large-scale uprooting and “transplantation” of mature trees, including in environmentally sensitive areas such as Shakarparian.
Lawyers argued that tree transplantation in urban settings carries a high risk of failure, and therefore cannot justify bypassing court orders. Reports indicate that multiple trees have already been uprooted, with more removals planned.
The petitioner maintained that such actions constitute willful disobedience of judicial orders, undermine the authority of the court, and violate citizens’ fundamental right to a clean and healthy environment.
Legal and Environmental Implications
The petition has named the newly appointed CDA chairman as a respondent, seeking:
- Initiation of contempt proceedings
- His personal appearance before the court
- Immediate suspension of the development project
- Action against officials responsible for illegal tree cutting
The case stems from an earlier writ petition challenging widespread deforestation across Islamabad. According to submissions, nearly 29,000 paper mulberry trees were removed in 2025, including around 8,700 trees in Shakarparian, reportedly to address pollen-related concerns.
However, WWF-Pakistan has disputed this justification, suggesting that the tree removal was also linked to infrastructure development projects.
Petitioners argue that the scale of deforestation has already led to biodiversity loss, rising urban temperatures, and deteriorating air quality, warning that continued activity could cause irreversible environmental damage.
As the case proceeds, the court’s findings are expected to have significant implications for balancing urban development and environmental protection in the capital.
