ISLAMABAD – Supreme Court of Pakistan turned down review petitions of Monal Restaurant, La Montana, and other eateries located within heart of Margalla Hills.
The apex court lamented restaurants for submitting review petitions despite earlier promises to close within ninety days. The top court also condemned this act as contemptible and a mockery of the court.
The court withdrawn its previous comments that had been in favor of eatery and directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to focus on finding alternative locations for these businesses. It also reversed its previous stance of prioritizing these restaurants for future leases.
The ruling mandates that closure of these establishments within National Park be executed without delay. Capital Development Authority is instructed to assist in relocating these businesses to new locations but without offering them any special advantages.
In previous ruling, Naeem Bukhari – who is representing one of the restaurants – has a heated exchange with Chief Justice. The top judge questioned continuation of commercial activities despite a high court order for closure, highlighting the impact on wildlife and the park’s conservation.
Justice Isa pointed out that the continued operation of these restaurants was a violation of the court’s order and noted the minimal annual license fee, which was set at Rs11,000 in 1999. Bukhari defended the businesses, arguing the license was still valid.
These famous restaurants faced the action in broader ruling on legality of commercial activities in the park. The court further emphasised that the removal of these restaurants should be completed within three months and reiterated that while relocation to alternative sites should be considered, no special priority would be given.
Why is Islamabad s scenic Monal Restaurant on Margalla Hills closing?
