Peshawar High Court imposes ban on construction activities in protected areas

The Peshawar High Court (PHC) Abbottabad Bench has taken a significant step by imposing a ban on construction activities within the areas under the jurisdiction of Galyat Development Authority (GDA) and the Kaghan Development Authority (KDA). These areas include the pristine Ayubia National Park and the reserved forests of Kaghan. The court's decision was prompted by petitions challenging the leasing of land within Ayubia National Park to a private company.

The PHC has designated the Additional Advocate General as the focal person responsible for ensuring the enforcement of this ban. Additionally, both GDA and KDA have been summoned to provide explanations regarding the execution of the ban. The petitions underscore the infringement of national and international laws, such as the Wildlife Act of 1997 and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Act of 2015, which explicitly prohibit commercial activities and the construction of multi-story buildings in reserved forests.

Of particular concern to the court is the widespread deforestation occurring in Ayubia National Park. To address this issue, GDA and KDA have been instructed to furnish a list of hotels and restaurants currently operating within the park. Moreover, the Conservator Hazara has been called upon to offer insights into this pressing matter.

The PHC's ban on construction activities in Ayubia National Park and Kaghan Reserved Forests marks a crucial effort to safeguard these ecologically sensitive areas. By upholding environmental laws and regulations, the court aims to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of these regions for future generations to enjoy.