Following the Supreme Court's recent ruling, wildlife authorities have taken control of two restaurants on Margalla Hills, Islamabad, which were previously operating within the protected national park area.
The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board confirmed that they have now assumed possession of Monal and LaMontana restaurants after the district administration sealed the establishments in compliance with the court's decision.
According to an IWMB spokesperson, wildlife has begun reclaiming the area as human activity has decreased, creating a natural habitat for various species.
"The future course of action for the restaurants and surrounding areas will be determined in consultation with relevant organizations," the spokesperson added.
Also Read: SC upholds closure of Monal, other restaurants in Islamabad
On September 10, the Supreme Court dismissed the review petitions and maintained its earlier decision to close Monal Restaurant, La Montana, and other establishments operating in the National Park area of Islamabad.
Pronouncing its judgement, the court stated that the restaurants had previously provided voluntary assurances to close their operations within three months. The court strongly criticised the filing of revision petitions after these assurances, labeling it a "contemptible" act and a "joke with the court."
Also Read: SC orders closure of Monal, all restaurants in Islamabad’s Margalla National Park
The Supreme Court withdrew its earlier observations that had been in favour of the restaurants and directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to prioritize these establishments for leases at alternative locations. However, the court withdrew its observations on giving priority to these restaurants in future lease proceedings.
The court declared that the restaurants in the National Park area should be given priority in the lease of restaurants at another location. It also noted that filing a review plea despite assurances in court is a joke with the court and contemptible.
The court's ruling concluded that the decision to close the restaurants in the National Park area should be implemented without delay. The CDA was instructed to facilitate the relocation of these establishments to other areas on a priority basis, but no special preference will be given.
