Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA), Chief Commissioner Islamabad, and Director General Civil Defense, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, participated as the chief guest in a special ceremony organized in Islamabad to mark the World Environment Day 2025.
The event was attended by representatives from UN-Habitat, Wildlife Department, Ministry of Climate Change, Green Margalla Hills Friends, as well as officials and employees from the Sanitation and Environment wings of the CDA, according to a statement issued by the CDA here on Friday.
The primary aim of the ceremony was to promote awareness about green spaces, eco-friendly tree plantation, and the importance of cleanliness in combating environmental pollution in Islamabad.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman CDA welcomed the participants and extended Eid greetings. He urged residents of Islamabad to celebrate Eid-ul-Azha responsibly by ensuring proper cleanliness, emphasizing that ‘cleanliness is half of faith.’
He shared that over 100 scientifically designed pits have been dug across the city to dispose of animal waste in a hygienic manner during Eid.
The chairman highlighted the use of biodegradable plastic bags, which are being distributed to citizens at their homes, mosques, and commercial centers for the safe disposal of animal remains. He encouraged people to either bury the waste using these bags or hand it over to the sanitation teams.
Muhammad Ali Randhawa urged citizens to perform sacrifices at designated slaughtering spots. However, if this is not possible and sacrifices are performed elsewhere, he advised the public to still use biodegradable bags and ensure proper disposal. ‘We must keep Islamabad clean at all costs,’ he stated.
He further emphasized that adopting cleanliness is a contribution to the green environment. ‘Celebrate Eid, but don’t forget to plant trees as well,’ he advised. He called on citizens to remember the spirit of sacrifice by supporting those who may not be able to afford it.
Addressing the broader environmental goals, Randhawa noted that simple actions like planting trees can have lasting impacts on the ecosystem. He shared that Islamabad’s educational institutions serve nearly 230,000 students, and if each student plants just two trees, over 500,000 trees could be added to the city’s green landscape, significantly helping to control pollution.
Randhawa proudly noted that CDA ranks as the leading institution in Pakistan for tree plantation. He acknowledged the efforts of developers and experts who understand the cost and long-term benefits of greenery. ‘Whatever the cost of tree plantation, it is an investment in our future generations,’ he added.
He concluded by highlighting the importance not just of planting trees, but also of maintaining and caring for them, to ensure lasting environmental benefits. He also mentioned that a comprehensive briefing on environmental initiatives has been given to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.