The National Assembly Standing Committee on Climate Change convened a meeting chaired by Nuzhat Pathan to address various pressing issues. Representatives from the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Ministry of Climate Change were in attendance.
One of the key concerns raised during the meeting was the presence of over 600 illegal housing societies in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. CDA Chairman Noor Ul Amin Mengal disclosed that there are approximately 150 illegal housing societies in Islamabad, 318 in Rawalpindi, and around 122 in Fateh Jang and Attock.
Committee members expressed their apprehensions regarding the adverse environmental impact of these unauthorized housing societies. They highlighted that many of these developments are situated on unauthorized land and lack proper drainage and sewage systems, which can result in pollution and flooding.
Another topic discussed during the meeting was the interruption of soybean imports. The committee learned that soybean meal has been imported since 2015, but recent months have seen disruptions due to a lack of licenses.
Committee members emphasized the need for the government to take prompt action to resume soybean imports, particularly for the poultry industry, which heavily relies on soybean meal as a vital protein source.
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The issue of Margalla Hills also garnered attention during the meeting. Concerns were raised about the increasing number of visitors to the hills and the subsequent strain on the environment.
In response, the committee recommended that the CDA erect fences around the Margalla Hills to restrict unauthorized access. Additionally, they suggested increasing patrolling efforts in the area to deter illegal activities.
Overall, the committee meeting was deemed productive, resulting in several recommendations aimed at safeguarding the environment in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
