Islamabad’s Green Future in Peril: Experts Call for Sustainable Urban Development Reform

Experts and citizens raised serious concerns at a recent webinar. They warned about Islamabad’s growing environmental crisis. Rapid and unplanned urban development is causing this problem. The Capital Development Authority and housing societies often break zoning rules. Therefore, the city’s vital green spaces are disappearing fast. Concrete now replaces trees and parks. This trend threatens the city’s ecological balance and public health.

Governance Failures Fuel the Crisis

Weak governance is a core issue. Elite interests and populist decisions override professional, science-based plans. This conflict creates irreversible damage. Furthermore, environmental professionals face marginalization. Dr. Tariq Banuri highlighted these institutional weaknesses. He stated that these actions actively undermine conservation work. For example, officials often harass activists protecting hills and forests. Without transparent and democratic governance, the environment will keep deteriorating.

A Collaborative Path Forward

The webinar proposed a clear solution. Participants strongly called for a new, dedicated think tank. This group must unite independent professionals with policymakers. In addition, it should include civil society, architects, and artists. Their collective goal is to develop long-term, people-centered solutions. This collaborative approach is essential for sustainable urban development. Citizens must engage and take collective responsibility. Ultimately, informed public participation can drive institutional reform. The session concluded with a shared resolve. Islamabad’s green future depends on inclusive governance and sustained public action now.