Islamabad, 30 January 2025: Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) participated in the fourth and final meeting of the Islamabad Environment Commission, held at the Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination (MoCC & EC). The meeting was chaired by Dr. Parvez Hassan, Senior Advocate Supreme Court and Implementation Commissioner. The commission, established under the orders of Islamabad High Court (IHC) in 2015, reviewed key environmental challenges and progress on court-mandated actions.

Key discussions focused on addressing deforestation and encroachments in Margalla Hills National Park. The goal is to ensure sustainable urban development under the Islamabad Master Plan. The commission also discussed the protection of Rawal Lake from pollution to safeguard its ecosystem. Enhancing waste collection and recycling systems was emphasized for improved solid waste management. Strengthening Pak-EPA’s technical and regulatory capacities was also a priority.

The chair of the meeting highlighted the Pak-EPA’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and ensuring sustainable development in Islamabad. He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among government agencies, environmental experts, and civil society to effectively address environmental challenges. Dr. Parvez Hassan also reiterated the Pak-EPA’s effort to enhance monitoring systems, improve public awareness, and take stringent actions against violators to uphold environmental laws.

The commission approved its final report, summarizing deliberations and site visits, for submission to the IHC. Dr. Parvez Hassan commended Secretary MOCC & EC, DG Pak-EPA, Chairman CDA, Mr. Hammad Naqi Khan (DG WWF), Mr. Ali Sheikh (Implementation Commission), Capt. Imtiaz Hussain, Capt. Ahmer Saleem, Mr. Muhammad Irfan (Ministry of Defence), Miss Rina Saeed Khan (Chairperson IWMB) along with other esteemed members, for their contributions. He emphasized the need for continued collaboration to safeguard Islamabad’s environment.