Islamabad: The Margalla hills have been overgrazed to the point where the wildlife species are the most adversely affected because of loss of habitat, according to a news report. The locals have pointed out that the forest cover hasn’t deteriorated significantly, but that the increase in tourist activities in the area have significantly impacted the natural habitats of the wildlife species.
Residents have insisted that they can’t be blamed for cutting down trees as they only use dry wood for cooking and heating purposes, and don’t cut down trees. Statistics on core biodiversity in different zones of Margalla Hills have shown that the highest livestock population is in Talhar village with 1,857 animals, followed by Shahdara with 834 animals, Gokina Kalan and Shah Allah Ditta with 1,207 and 788, respectively, whereas Jhang Bagial has only 752 animals.
