The 14th Pakistan Mountain Festival starts with clean-up of Trail-5 Margalla Hills
ISLAMABAD: The 14th Pakistan Mountain Festival kicked off with a successful clean-up drive at Margalla Hills Trail-5 on Sunday, marking the beginning of celebrations for International Mountain Day on December 11. Over 100 students from various universities participated in the event, organized by Devcom-Pakistan, to raise awareness about the importance of preserving mountain ecosystems and conserving natural resources.
International Mountain Day, established by the United Nations, highlights the critical role of mountain ecosystems in supporting life on Earth. Mountains cover 22% of the planet’s land surface and provide vital resources, including freshwater for half of humanity.
Addressing the participants, Devcom-Pakistan Executive Director Munir Ahmed emphasized the importance of protecting mountain ecosystems, which are crucial for sustaining biodiversity, regulating climate, and providing essential services like clean water and air purification.
Munir Ahmed highlighted the role of the Pakistan Mountain Festival in raising awareness about mountain-related issues over the past 14 years. He encouraged citizens to take an active role in protecting mountains, citing the example of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board’s efforts to conserve the Margalla Hills National Park.
Rina Saeed Khan, Chairperson of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, reinforced the importance of protecting the Margalla Hills, which provide essential ecological services, including water retention, flood prevention, and temperature regulation.
The clean-up drive served as a reminder of the urgent need to address threats to the Margalla Hills, including littering, encroachments, and unsustainable development. The event showcased the commitment of students and youth to conserving vital ecosystems and promoting awareness about mountain-related issues.
The Pakistan Mountain Festival will continue with a series of activities, including cultural performances, live painting, and exhibitions, promoting awareness about mountain ecosystems and the challenges faced by mountain communities. PR
