Islamabad Declares Smoking on Hiking Trails as Criminal Offense.

To address the issue of forest fires in the Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP) in Islamabad, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has implemented a significant measure.

The authority has officially banned smoking on all hiking trails located in the Himalayan foothills within the federal capital. Noor ul Amin Mengal, the Chairman of CDA, announced the ban, emphasizing that smoking on these trails will be considered a criminal offense.

The aim is to designate the hiking trails as smoke-free zones to prevent potential fire hazards and ensure the preservation of the natural environment.

Smoking on all hiking trails in Islamabad will be considered as a crime. All trails are declared smoke free zones here onwards.

— Noor Ul Amin Mengal (@Noormengal_) July 5, 2023

It is worth noting that earlier this year, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) took measures to address various concerns in the Margalla Hills National Park.

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To prevent forest fires, littering, and air pollution, the CDA imposed a ban on all recreational activities in the area.

This decision was made in response to a massive fire that occurred, prompting the implementation of Section 144 by the additional district magistrate in April.

Furthermore, in August of the previous year, the CDA’s Environment Wing inaugurated a new hiking trail in the Margalla Hills.

This initiative aimed to cater to hikers and tourists, providing them with a designated route to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.