Special Correspondent
ISLAMABAD: A heated dispute has erupted between the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWLMB) and the Enforcement Directorate of the Capital Development Authority (CDA). The conflict revolves around the closure of Visitor Information Centers, resulting in a series of confrontations and actions taken by both parties.
In a recent development, tensions have reached a boiling point between the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board and the Enforcement Directorate. The disagreement stems from the closure of Visitor Information Centers by the CDA’s Enforcement Directorate, prompting strong reactions from officials of the Wildlife Board.
The dispute, which initially arose over the closure of Visitor Information Centers at Trail 5 and 6, has escalated into a full-fledged conflict between the two entities. According to reports, the Enforcement Directorate’s decision to shut down Visitor Information Centers on Trail Five and Trail Six has sparked outrage among officials of the Islamabad Wildlife Board.
In response to the closure, Islamabad Wildlife Board officials have taken drastic measures, including the removal of equipment belonging to the Wildlife Board from the premises. This action highlights the intensity of the rift between the two organizations and underscores the seriousness of the situation.
Chairman of the Islamabad Wildlife Board expressed grave concerns over the closure of the Visitor Information Centers, emphasizing their importance in wildlife conservation efforts. He highlighted the significance of these centers in protecting endangered species, particularly cheetahs, and lamented the potential consequences of their shutdown on wildlife conservation efforts in the region.
On the other hand, a spokesperson for the CDA defended the closure of the Visitor Information Centers, stating that they were initially established for temporary use and were allocated to the Wildlife Board for office purposes. However, the spokesperson did not provide further clarification on the rationale behind the Enforcement Directorate’s decision to shut down the centers.
The closure of the Visitor Information Centers, which were established in 2015, has raised concerns about the future of wildlife conservation efforts in the area. Both parties remain entrenched in their positions, with no immediate resolution in sight. As tensions continue to escalate, stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a swift and amicable resolution to the conflict.
