Margalla Hills Hosts World Wildlife Day
News Desk
Islamabad: The Wildlife Management Board marked World Wildlife Day 2026 on Tuesday at Trail-05, Margalla Hills National Park, observing the global theme, “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.”
Covering 15,000 hectares, Margalla Hills National Park is home to 245 plant species across 77 families. Of these, 159 species (65%) are utilized in traditional medicinal systems, and over 200 medicinal plant species have been formally documented, highlighting the park’s significance as a “living pharmacy.”
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During the event, speakers emphasized the importance of conserving native medicinal plants while addressing challenges such as habitat loss, forest fires, overharvesting, and climate change. They called for sustainable practices, scientific research, and active community engagement to protect plant biodiversity.
An educational walk guided participants through the park, showcasing the medicinal value of local plant species. Representatives from the Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination, park management, the Zoological Survey of Pakistan, environmental experts, and volunteers reaffirmed their commitment to biodiversity conservation.
World Wildlife Day serves as a reminder that protecting plant biodiversity is crucial for human health, livelihoods, and the sustainability of ecosystems.