MarGo: Islamabad gets new mascot

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) announced a new mascot for the country’s capital called MarGo.

In an announcement on Tuesday, a CDA spokesperson shared details about the organisation’s latest project: a quirky mascot.

The CDA embarked on the idea in a bid to boost tourism in Islamabad.

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Sporting sunglasses, a cap, and a handkerchief, MarGo is poised to embody the serene beauty of Islamabad, similar to iconic symbols representing other cities worldwide.

Derived from the Margalla Hills, “Mar”Go is not an ordinary mascot. With approval from the CDA Board, this cute leopard will be found on the entrances and tourist spots across the city, including Pak-China Friendship Centre and the Convention Centre.

Lightning fast like a leopard, MarGo will follow wherever a tourist or local goes in Islamabad. The mascot will also make appearances in major parks, metro stations, and even cultural institutions.

But what is the significance behind Margo? Aside from symbolising Islamabad, the decision to declare the endangered Asiatic leopard as the city’s mascot aims to raise awareness about wildlife conservation efforts in the country.

“Efforts for the survival of the endangered leopard will also be highlighted”, the CDA official said.

By shedding light on the city’s Margalla Hills and efforts to preserve the local leopard population, the CDA hopes MarGo will serve a dual purpose: promoting tourism while also advocating for environmental conservation.