Key Environmental and Civil Challenges in Islamabad

I am writing to highlight the major environmental and civil problems in Islamabad. Due to rapid population growth

By: Mehwish Ali Akbar

I am writing to highlight the major environmental and civil problems in Islamabad. Due to rapid population growth and inadequate planning, numerous serious issues have arisen. These problems are harming the environment and making life more difficult for residents.

Islamabad is struggling because the city is growing too quickly and its natural environment is being damaged. There was no proper planning to support this growth. The population has exceeded 2 million, and as a result there is less water, more traffic, and greater pressure on roads and public services. This is hurting both the city and the natural environment.

The major problems are: deforestation, damage to wildlife in the Margalla Hills, water shortages, and increasing garbage. The city’s services cannot keep up with so many people. New buildings and housing societies are cutting down too many trees, even in Shakarparian and near the hills. Experts say that deforestation is ruining Islamabad’s beauty. It is also making the weather hotter and harming animals and the natural ecosystem.

The CDA collects about 600 tons of garbage daily, but in villages and illegal settlements garbage is still not collected properly. Waste is often dumped in open areas. In violation of environmental regulations, some people prioritize quick profits over protecting the city the right way. Groundwater levels are falling rapidly due to overuse. Wastewater from homes, factories, and old pipes is polluting water sources. Air quality is also worsening because of construction dust. This is causing smog and unhealthy air to breathe.

I sincerely request the concerned authorities to take urgent steps to address these environmental and civil problems. They should stop illegal construction, protect forests and green areas, improve water supply and waste management, and strictly enforce environmental laws. These actions will help make Islamabad a cleaner, safer, and healthier city.