The Supreme Court of Pakistan has summoned the owner of the popular Monal Restaurant, the Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP), and the Cabinet Secretary in a case related to commercial activities within the Margalla National Park.
The case stems from a June 11 ruling by the Supreme Court, where it ordered the closure of Monal Restaurant and all other eateries operating in the Margalla Hills National Park in Islamabad.
The court had rejected a report submitted by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and directed the administration to shut down the restaurants within 90 days.
Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, who is presiding over the case, remarked that the court’s ruling to preserve the national heritage of the Margalla National Park has been violated. He questioned the relationship between the Monal Restaurant owner and the Cabinet Secretary.
The Supreme Court has now summoned the Monal Restaurant owner, the AGP, and the Cabinet Secretary to appear before the court.
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The court has also ordered that the matter be brought to the attention of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Monal Restaurant, one of the most popular dining destinations in Islamabad known for its scenic views, had earlier announced its permanent closure on September 11 in line with the Supreme Court’s directive.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts to protect the ecological integrity of Pakistan’s national parks and the challenges posed by commercial developments encroaching on protected areas.
