IHC bans tree felling, warns of contempt for CDA officials

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday expressed strong dissatisfaction over the research conducted by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) regarding the cutting of Paper Mulberry trees in the federal capital

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 16th Apr, 2026) The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday expressed strong dissatisfaction over the research conducted by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) regarding the cutting of Paper Mulberry trees in the Federal capital.

The court warned that any further tree felling within Islamabad’s limits would be considered contempt of court and would be punishable.

A single bench comprising Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro heard a petition filed against the cutting of trees in the capital. During the proceedings, Justice Soomro remarked that the court would decide the case after hearing arguments from the CDA in the next hearing. We have not sentenced anyone for contempt in the last year and a half," the judge observed. "But now, if any CDA officer is found involved in cutting trees, they will face contempt of court. It is deeply regrettable that institutions function in such a manner."

The court emphasized its personal stake in the matter, stating: "We live in this city and want it to remain beautiful. Look at what Karachi used to be and what it has become today—you will understand."

The CDA’s counsel informed the court that 12,800 Paper Mulberry trees were cut down from F-9 Park, and in their place, 40,000 new trees had been planted. He further stated that a journalist had written about the Paper Mulberry trees, following which the Prime Minister’s Office took notice. The Ministry of Climate Change had also recommended that all Paper Mulberry trees be cut down.

Justice Soomro, however, remained unconvinced. "The law of nature does not support the idea that something growing can be harmful," he remarked.

He questioned the credibility of the research used to justify the large-scale felling. What level of research was conducted to determine that these trees are harmful to human life? Only a few researches are recognized worldwide—was this among them?" the court asked.

When the CDA’s lawyer admitted he was unaware of the research’s category, the court further inquired, "Is there no agricultural university here? Did you seek any assistance from them?" The lawyer requested time to provide an answer in the next hearing.

Expressing strong displeasure, Justice Soomro stated that it is a matter of great regret. A major department like the CDA carried out this operation without any credible research. You should have involved credible environmental researchers and sought their help."

The lawyer responded that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had been consulted. At this, the court retorted that now it will be contempt of court. If you violate orders, there will be consequences. The court is not satisfied with where you obtained this opinion on cutting trees.

The court explicitly ordered that not a single tree shall be cut. Any violation of this order will be treated as contempt of court, and any CDA officer found involved will face contempt proceedings.

Meanwhile, the petitioner’s counsel informed the court that the Ministry of Climate Change has stated it had not approved the tree-cutting operation.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the CDA’s research on the matter, the court adjourned the hearing until next Thursday.