Talal Chaudhry defends Islamabad tree felling, cites planning and health

ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry briefed the National Assembly on Tuesday regarding the recent tree-cutting activities in Islamabad, defending the decisions and addressing criticism over the issue.

Chaudhry said the removal of trees in the capital had been widely criticised without understanding the reasons behind it. “Trees were cut for three main reasons, and these actions were necessary for infrastructure development, urban planning, and public health,” he told lawmakers.

Urban planning and road infrastructure

The minister explained that Islamabad’s master plan included both green and brown zones, and that the trees felled along Embassy Road were not removed to create a new road; the road already existed. He added that journalists would be given a detailed briefing on the project to clarify misconceptions.

Afforestation efforts ongoing

Talal Chaudhry highlighted the government’s ongoing tree-planting initiatives, saying that around 40,000 trees of various species have already been planted, and an additional 60,000 trees will be planted as part of the upcoming plantation campaign. “While trees were cut, many more have also been planted,” he said.

Health and environmental considerations

The minister said some trees were removed because they contributed to pollen allergies among residents. He added that measures for infrastructure development and urban renewal are sometimes unavoidable. Chaudhry also noted that the Supreme Court had established a committee of forestry experts to oversee such matters, and that all decisions are made in accordance with official policy.

Balancing development and greenery

Chaudhry emphasised that the government remains committed to maintaining greenery in the capital while ensuring necessary urban development. “Afforestation and infrastructure development go hand in hand, and every effort is being made to balance the two,” he concluded.