The Supreme Court of Pakistan has scheduled a review petition for Monal Restaurant, with hearings set for September 3.
The case will be overseen by a three-member bench led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, including Justices Jamal Mandokhail and Naeem Akhtar Afghan. The court will also hear petitions about La Montana and Sun Shine Heights on the same day.
Previously, Monal and La Montana had committed to vacating their premises within three months following orders from the Islamabad High Court. This court had directed the government to seal Monal Restaurant in the picturesque Margalla Hills National Park and assume control over the property. It further required the administration to clarify the rightful ownership of the 8,600 acres encompassing the park. The Islamabad High Court declared the lease agreement between Monal Restaurant’s management and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) expired.
Read: Monal Restaurant Islamabad to Close, Affecting 700 Employees
Furthermore, the court invalidated a separate agreement dated September 30, 2019, between Monal Restaurant and the Military State Officer under the Remount, Veterinary, and Farms Directorate (RFVD).
The Supreme Court, reinforcing the decision of former Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Athar Minallah, has mandated that the Wildlife Board assume control of Monal from September 11, supported by the CDA and police to ensure the property’s security. The court has ordered the implementation of barriers to restrict access to the restaurant and the demolition of the buildings, ensuring minimal disturbance to the wildlife. It has also advised consulting wildlife experts about future uses of the site, such as possibly creating an artificial lake.
In a detailed 25-page judgment penned by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, the court underscored the sanctity of life as a fundamental right under Articles 9 and 14, noting the existential importance of biodiversity. The judgment directs the Secretary of the Ministry of Defense to rigorously enforce applicable laws, with the CDA Chairman to guide the enforcement efforts.
Read: Supreme Court of Pakistan Orders Closure of All National Park Restaurants, Including Monal
The ruling also specifies that the site should not be left in disrepair or with debris, emphasizing efforts to reintegrate the land into the national park. The Supreme Court’s verdict affirmed that the lease between Monal Restaurant and the CDA had expired, marking a significant decision in preserving the Margalla Hills National Park.
