Rawal Lake Park has lost 50% of Trees over the past 20 years, according to new satellite images released by the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco). The images show major environmental changes caused by increasing urban development around the popular park in Islamabad.
The satellite images compare Lake View Point in 2004 and 2024. In 2004, the area was covered with dense vegetation and healthy tree cover. By 2024, much of that greenery had disappeared and was replaced by buildings, roads, and recreational facilities.
The findings highlight the impact of rapid and unplanned urban expansion. Environmental experts believe the loss of 50% of Trees has reduced the area’s natural beauty and affected the local ecosystem.
The images also reveal a noticeable change in the water quality of Rawal Dam. In 2004, the water appeared greenish. However, the latest images show a much darker, almost blackish color.
Some environmentalists believe algae growth may be responsible for the color change. They also say untreated sewage flowing into the lake from nearby settlements and upstream areas has likely contributed to worsening water pollution over the years.
Pollution concerns grew further after a cleanup campaign by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) in early June. During the operation, officials found hazardous waste along the shores of Rawal Lake.
The waste included used syringes, hospital refuse, and large amounts of plastic materials. These items pose a serious threat to the lake’s ecosystem and surrounding wildlife.
Pak-EPA Director Dr. Zaigham Abbas said there is clear evidence that pollution is entering Rawal Lake. He also announced plans to plant 500,000 seed balls across Islamabad during the monsoon season. Several of these plantations will take place around Rawal Lake to improve the environment.
Officials from the Ministry of Climate Change described the situation as more than an urban planning issue. They said the condition of Rawal Lake represents a serious environmental concern that affects plants, animals, and nearby communities.
Over the last two decades, Lake View Park has added many commercial and recreational attractions. These include barbecue areas, karting tracks, off-road driving facilities, a golf club, horse riding, a food street, paintball grounds, amusement parks, children’s play areas, and large parking spaces.
Environmental experts believe these developments have contributed to the loss of natural green spaces and 50% of Trees in the area.
Data from Global Forest Watch (GFW), an initiative of the World Resources Institute (WRI), also supports concerns about tree loss in Islamabad. According to the data, the capital lost 14 hectares of tree cover between 2001 and 2025.
This represents 0.46 percent of the city’s tree cover recorded in 2000. The loss also resulted in an estimated 6.0 kilotonnes of carbon emissions.
The report shows that 77 percent of Islamabad’s tree cover loss occurred in areas mainly affected by deforestation. Permanent agriculture and expanding settlements each accounted for four hectares of tree cover loss. Wildfires and logging were listed as temporary causes of forest loss.
Officials from the Capital Development Authority (CDA) were contacted for comment. However, no response was received at the time of reporting.
In other news read more about Pakistan Railways to Plant Trees and Flowers Along Railway Tracks
The latest findings raise fresh concerns about balancing urban development with environmental protection. Experts stress that preserving green spaces is essential for protecting biodiversity, improving air quality, and ensuring a healthier future for Islamabad.
