THERE was a time when construction in hilly areas followed strict rules. Develop-ment in mountainous regions used to be carefully planned to protect slopes, forests and natural water paths. This helped keep the land stable and reduced the risk of landslides. Today, in the name of develop-ment, we are cutting mountains, removing forests and blocking natural streams.

In places like Murree, especially around Jhika Gali, these actions are already causing serious problems. With fewer trees to hold the soil, even a light rain spell can now trigger landslides and damage roads and homes.

This issue is not limited to one area. Across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), mountains are being cut and forests cleared without proper planning. Such actions weaken the land and put people at risk. We must understand that trees are essential for holding the soil together. Without them, both nature and communi-ties suffer. Development should not ignore these basic facts.

The government needs to enforce strict building rules, protect existing forest cover and restore natural water flows. If we continue to stick to our current practices, the damage will only increase.

Wasif Khaliq Dad
Rawalpindi

Published in Dawn, May 12th, 2026