Reviving the Queen of Hills

Murree, once hailed as the Queen of Hills, has sadly witnessed a decline in its natural splendour due to the scourge of illegal constructions. Unauthorised structures not only mar the landscape but also threaten the ecological integrity and charm of this iconic hill station. However, there is renewed hope as the Punjab government takes decisive action to revive Murree’s lost beauty and safeguard its precious environment.

Illegal constructions pose a grave threat to Murree’s natural beauty. These eyesores disrupt the blend of lush greenery and majestic vistas, tarnishing the allure that has long captivated visitors. To combat this pressing issue, the Punjab government has formed three dedicated teams, tasked with addressing illegal constructions. This will be instrumental in enforcing strict regulations and dismantling unauthorised structures that defile the landscape. However, the government cannot succeed alone in this endeavour. Community involvement is paramount to preserving Murree’s natural beauty. Residents and visitors alike must embrace a culture of environmental responsibility, from proper waste disposal to mindful tourism practices. By working hand in hand with authorities, individuals can actively contribute to safeguarding Murree’s ecological heritage for future generations to cherish. Moreover, the government should prioritise stringent enforcement of land-use regulations and zoning laws to prevent further encroachment on Murree’s pristine landscapes. Simultaneously, efforts should be made to streamline the approval process for legal constructions, ensuring that development aligns with sustainable principles and respects the hill station’s natural aesthetics.

With each dismantled structure and every planted tree, a narrative of restoration and rejuvenation emerges. As stakeholders in this collective commitment, it behooves us to uphold our roles as custodians of Murree’s cherished landscapes.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 24^th, 2024.

Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.