F-7/1 Residents Urge CDA to Stop Green Belt Construction, Warn Against Commercialisation

Residents of Islamabad’s Sector F-7/1 have called on the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to immediately suspend all ongoing and proposed construction in the area’s green belt, saying the space should remain protected for environmental and recreational purposes.

Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Club, residents said Islamabad’s green belts are essential to the city’s ecological balance, air quality and urban environment. They urged the CDA to preserve the F-7/1 green belt in its original form and avoid commercial development that could permanently alter the area.

Residents Raise Environmental Concerns

Addressing the media, Dr. Muhammad Afzal described Islamabad’s green belts as the city’s “oxygen factories” and warned that permanent construction could have long-term environmental consequences.

He questioned whether commercial establishments such as coffee shops, restaurants and ice cream parlours should be developed in protected green spaces, arguing that clean air, trees and public green areas are far more important for residents’ well-being.

Dr. Afzal also said similar commercial facilities do not exist in other green belts across Islamabad, making the proposed development in Sector F-7/1 a matter of public concern.

Petition Submitted to CDA

Residents said they have submitted a petition to the CDA Chairman, signed by members of the local community, seeking the immediate suspension of all ongoing and planned construction activities in the F-7/1 green belt.

The petition also calls for preserving the area exclusively for environmental and recreational use, ensuring meaningful public consultation before future development projects, and protecting Islamabad’s green spaces from commercialisation.

Alternative Site Suggested for Memorial

Dr. Afzal said that if authorities intend to establish a memorial to Zaheer-ud-Din Babar, it could instead be developed at F-9 Park or on a university campus, while the F-7/1 green belt should remain untouched.

Residents Siddique Gohar, Ali Bukhari, Khawaja Yasin and others also attended the press conference and voiced support for the campaign.

The residents said they would continue pursuing legal action and expand their public awareness campaign if construction plans for the F-7/1 green belt are not withdrawn.

Also Read : Supreme Court Rules Landowners Must Receive Fair Market Compensation in Landmark Acquisition Case