Wildlife Authorities
Wildlife authorities have taken decisive action by sealing the Monal and LaMontana restaurants, which are situated in the Margalla Hills National Park, a protected area in Islamabad.
This move follows a Supreme Court decision mandating the closure of these establishments. The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) confirmed that the district administration executed the court’s order by sealing the restaurants.
The IWMB explained that this action is part of an effort to reclaim the park for wildlife, aiming to restore and enhance natural habitats for various species.
The board’s spokesperson emphasized that the area is being reclaimed to ensure the protection and resurgence of local wildlife.
The closure of Monal and LaMontana restaurants was upheld by the Supreme Court on September 10, which dismissed review petitions submitted by the restaurant operators.
The court’s decision reinforced its earlier ruling, criticizing the attempts to reverse the order and highlighting that the restaurants had previously agreed to cease operations within a three-month timeframe.
The Supreme Court’s directive mandates the immediate shutdown of the restaurants within the national park.
Furthermore, it instructs the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to oversee the relocation of these establishments to alternative locations.
The court has specified that the relocation process must not favor the restaurants in future leasing arrangements.
The future of Monal and LaMontana will be determined through consultations with relevant organizations, ensuring that the area’s ecological integrity is maintained and that wildlife can thrive in their natural habitat once again.
