Supreme Court Alters Stance on Restaurants in Margalla Hills
Court withdraws previous favorable observations towards the restaurants.
Following the Supreme Court’s recent decision, wildlife authorities have taken over two restaurants located in Margalla Hills, Islamabad, which were previously situated within the protected national park.
The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) has confirmed that it has now taken possession of the Monal and LaMontana restaurants. This action follows the district administration’s decision to seal the establishments in adherence to the court’s ruling.
An IWMB spokesperson noted that with the reduction in human activity, wildlife has started to reclaim the area, fostering a more natural habitat for various species.
“The next steps regarding the restaurants and the surrounding area will be planned in collaboration with relevant organizations,” the spokesperson added.
SC Upholds Closure of Monal Restaurant and Othe Eateries in Islamabad
On September 10, the Supreme Court dismissed the review petitions and maintained its earlier decision to close Monal Restaurant, La Montana, and other establishments operating in the National Park area of Islamabad.
Pronouncing its judgement, the court stated that the restaurants had previously provided voluntary assurances to close their operations within three months. The court strongly criticised the filing of revision petitions after these assurances, labeling it a “contemptible” act and a “joke with the court.”
The Supreme Court has retracted its previous support for the restaurants located within the national park area and has directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to give these establishments priority for leasing alternative locations. However, the court has rescinded its earlier directive that favored these restaurants in future lease proceedings.
The court ruled that while the restaurants within the national park should be prioritized for relocation to other sites, no special preference will be given to them. Additionally, the court criticized the filing of a review plea despite previous assurances as a form of contempt and mockery of the court’s authority.
The ruling emphasized that the closure of the restaurants in the national park must be executed immediately. The CDA is tasked with facilitating the relocation of these businesses to alternative areas on a priority basis, though they will not receive any preferential treatment.
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