Government is launching Trail Patrol for Islamabad’s Margalla hills.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi unveiled plans on Friday for the Margalla Trail Patrol, a new initiative to safeguard the idyllic trails of Islamabad’s Margalla Hills.
Also read: TikToker Dolly gets bail in Margalla Hills’ forest fire case
Naqvi, speaking on social media platform X, highlighted the initiative’s focus on ensuring the safety of international visitors who frequent these scenic routes.
He detailed the security measures to include patrols on trail bikes, horseback, and on foot.
We’re launching the *Margalla Trail Patrol* to secure the beautiful trails of Margalla, especially for the safety of foreigners who love exploring them. Our tri-pronged security cover includes Trail Motorcycles, mounted Police (horses), and foot patrolling. pic.twitter.com/4emEH1u6wP
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) April 25, 2024
Earlier reports from the Wildlife Department confirmed the presence of five leopards within Islamabad’s hiking trails and National Park.
Consequently, the Capital Development Authority took action by temporarily closing hiking trail 3 of the Margalla Hills after leopard sightings were reported in the area.
Also read: Indian hand in Amir Tamba’s murder, claims Mohsin Naqvi
A spokesperson from the Wildlife Protection Board confirmed these sightings and justified the closure as a precautionary measure for public safety.
Preceding the leopard sightings, concerns arose when a venomous snake was spotted in the Margalla Hills.
Authorities issued warnings regarding the potential danger posed by the reptile if provoked.
The Margalla Hills are a hill range within the Margalla Hills National Park on the northern edge of Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan, just south of Haripur District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They are part of the Himalayan foothills.
The Margalla range has an area of 12,605 hectares.
