Margalla Hills Eateries Shut Down Following Supreme Court Order

Hasnain Gardezi

Islamabad: The iconic eateries perched on Islamabad’s Margalla Hills, including Monal, La Montana, and Gloria Jean’s, are closing their doors following a Supreme Court ruling mandating their demolition.

The area, now handed over to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), will transition from bustling social hubs to a protected natural reserve, marking a significant shift in the region’s use and preservation.

The Supreme Court’s decision has been celebrated by environmentalists as a crucial step toward preserving the Margalla Hills’ fragile ecosystem. However, it also marks the end of an era for many locals who cherished the restaurants for their scenic views and celebratory atmospheres.

Faisal, a private bank official, shared his reflections: “I’ve organized numerous Iftar parties and private events at these venues.

There was something magical about dining under the open sky, with the city lights below and the mountains above. For many of us, these hills were a backdrop for celebrating life’s milestones. The experience was more than just a meal it was a cherished memory.”

Kazim Abbas, a government official who frequently arranged retirement parties at these restaurants, expressed a mixture of nostalgia and understanding: “We’ve held countless farewell parties at Monal and La Montana.

It became a tradition to celebrate one last time in this serene location. While it’s heartbreaking to lose such a special place, I understand the importance of protecting the environment.”

Aman, a former worker at La Montana, voiced his personal loss: “I worked at these restaurants for over a decade. It wasn’t just a job; it was my passion. We saw families return year after year for their special moments. Now, all of that is gone. It’s difficult to come to terms with losing both our jobs and a place in people’s stories.”

Safwan Shahab Ahmed, Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Wildlife Foundation, hailed the decision as a victory for environmental conservation: “This is a monumental win for the environment.

The Margalla Hills are a vital part of Islamabad’s natural heritage, home to diverse flora and fauna threatened by unchecked commercialization. The Supreme Court’s decision to hand over the area to the IWMB is a significant achievement for preserving our natural resources.”

Despite this success, social activists point out that other projects, like Margalla Avenue, could threaten the very landscape now being protected. They advocate for a more comprehensive approach to development that balances progress with environmental conservation.

The IWMB plans to restore the hilltop area by dismantling the former restaurant structures and rewilding the space.

Their restoration plan includes installing benches, native flora, educational displays, and a water harvesting system. Strict regulations and monitoring will be implemented to maintain the area’s ecological integrity.

Senior journalist Fouzia Kulsoom Rana, known for her work in environmental journalism, praised the Supreme Court’s ruling: “The Margalla Hills, once vibrant with activity, are set to reclaim their natural splendor.

This closure symbolizes a shift towards conservation and serves as a reminder that protecting our irreplaceable natural heritage must always be a priority.”