The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a comprehensive campaign aimed at removing all paper mulberry trees from Islamabad, citing public health concerns linked to pollen allergies.
Pollen allergy affects a large segment of the city’s population, especially during the spring season. The initiative, approved in a high-level meeting led by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, is set to transform the capital’s green spaces by replacing the invasive paper mulberries with thousands of native tree species.
Islamabad’s pollen problem
Spring in Islamabad has long been synonymous with an explosion of pollen in the air, a phenomenon that causes severe allergic reactions for many residents. The paper mulberry tree, an East Asian species originally planted in the 1960s during the city’s development, has become a major source of pollen, making it a significant health concern. The male paper mulberry releases large amounts of pollen, particularly in the months of March and April, leading to widespread discomfort.
For years, residents have battled the allergy season, which brings with it a surge in hospital visits and numerous cases of respiratory distress. Environmental experts have confirmed that the pollen produced by the paper mulberry trees is among the most potent globally. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Bharat, the Prime Minister’s National Coordinator on Health, stated that the wild mulberry trees are the primary cause of the region’s allergy epidemic.
Mulberry trees are known for producing large quantities of pollen during allergy season, causing significant discomfort for those allergic to it. The pollen season, though brief, can be intense, typically beginning in late February and lasting until May, with the highest levels occurring in March and April. For individuals sensitive to mulberry pollen, this period can be particularly brutal, triggering a range of allergy symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, and respiratory issues.
Mulberry Removal and Replantation of native trees
In an effort to mitigate the health risks posed by these trees, the CDA has committed to a large-scale removal initiative. As part of this plan, approximately 80,000 to 100,000 wild mulberry trees will be cut down across various sectors of the capital.
In their place, the CDA has already planted one million eco-friendly trees and plans to add another 300,000 to 400,000 trees throughout the year. According to the CDA’s plan, additional trees will be planted in various other sectors as well, with a focus on native species such as loquat, guava, fig, apricot, and peepal.
“The phased removal of wild mulberry trees is actively underway as part of our commitment to eliminating pollen allergies in the region,” Dr. Mukhtar explained. “At the same time, we are replacing these trees with environmentally friendly alternatives to foster a healthier ecosystem.” He further highlighted that the removal of over 5,000 out of 7,000 mulberry trees at F-9 Park has already been completed as part of the ongoing effort.
“The removal of paper mulberry trees is an important step in addressing the pollen allergy issue in Islamabad. The new trees will not only help in reducing the pollen count but will also contribute to a greener, healthier environment,” said CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa during the meeting.
The process is already underway in key locations, including the Shakarparian area and F-9 Park, where more than 5,000 trees were removed last year, and 10,000 new trees were planted. Approximately 10,000 paper mulberry plants will be removed from the Shakarparian area, and 50,000 trees will be planted.
The CDA’s efforts to tackle the pollen allergy crisis will be supported by both private and corporate sectors. In line with the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, stakeholders from various industries are expected to collaborate on the plantation drive, ensuring that the initiative reaches a broader audience and achieves maximum impact.
Commitment to Health and Environment
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration has pledged to prioritize the health and well-being of Islamabad’s residents by tackling the root cause of pollen allergies. Dr. Bharat, in his statement, noted that the government is committed to executing this plan thoroughly and swiftly. “By mid-year, we expect the complete removal of paper mulberry trees from the capital, and their replacement with environmentally friendly alternatives,” he said.
The replanting initiative is part of a broader environmental strategy that includes improved air quality, enhanced biodiversity, and increased public awareness about the importance of native plants in urban ecosystems.
As spring approaches, the CDA’s campaign is gaining momentum, with plans to continue removing paper mulberry trees from other sectors of the city. The administration is also exploring innovative techniques such as aerial spraying and seed dropping to ensure that the Margalla Hills and other natural reserves benefit from the project.
This ambitious endeavor reflects the government’s broader environmental goals and its commitment to providing a healthier, more sustainable living environment for the people of Islamabad.
