ISLAMABAD, June 8: Environment experts at Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) have shown concern over the encroachments in Korang River bed, which are posing serious threat to environment and potable water availability in Rawal Dam.
Senior Environmental Researcher Kanwar Muhammad Javed Iqbal said that there are numerous residential and commercial constructions underway in Korang River Bed and Rawal Lake catchments area near Shahpur, Mauza Phulgaran, Islamabad but the concerned authorities have turned a blind eye to this ecological disaster.
Commenting on the relevant laws, Mr Iqbal referred to Initial Environmental Examination Regulation 2000 under Section 12 of Pakistan Environmental Protection Act 1997 which clearly states that protective measures should be taken in ecological sensitive areas.
Pointing specifically toward recent developments, he highlighted that encroachment through extension in existing constructions and new commercial projects like construction of a five storey building whose initial excavation and foundation work has been completed inside the river bed. He said “these encroachments are not only altering the natural habitat of the Korang River, but will also pollute the Korang River, which is a source of potable water for millions of people in Rawalpindi.”
He further highlighted the ‘CDA Zoning Regulation 2005’, which provides clear guideline for ‘un-acquired areas’ in its section (h) of B on page-8. According to him, the zoning regulation notes that “construction of houses and expansion of settlements shall not be allowed in areas adjoining water bodies, lakes and reservoirs. The extent of such areas shall only be determined after proper hydrological survey. ”
He informed that SDPI team has visited the area and confirmed gross encroachments in the area. He added that these illegal encroachment and construction puts serious threat not only to sensitive ecological area of Korang River but spread waterborne diseases in twin cities.
The citizens of the area have also lodged a written complaint to Environmental Protection Agency (PAK- EPA) to look into the matter and stop these constructions. “We will not tolerate and legally fight at every possible level,” said the concerned citizens while assuring their resolve to protect their environment.—A Reporter