ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Climate Change has opened up another trail in the Margalla hills for hikers and adventurers.

Roughly 8.5km long, Trail 4 begins about a kilometre past Islamabad zoo and Jungle Spot. Announcement for the trail’s opening was officially made by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Climate Change Malik Amin Aslam.

The trail, he said, was inaccessible due to lack of maintenance and neglect but it had been restored and reopened, which means that residents can get out of their homes for some fresh air and exercise.

He urged hikers to make sure they maintained adequate distance from each other.

Islamabad may have become a densely-populated city, but it has abundant natural wonders, hills and streams that have survived urban sprawl coupled with a lake and local wildlife in the hills.

According to Mr Aslam, this is the latest major trail to be opened to the public since Trail 6 was inaugurated nine years ago.

“Trail 4 is the most well-preserved track and has the most wildlife. It has a steady gradient leading to picturesque views of Margalla hills. It has been opened to public from today,” he added.

Published in Dawn, January 16th, 2021