Intruders take over popular picnic spot

ISLAMABAD:

The alleged mafia has taken over a stormwater drain in Shahdara, once a popular picnic spot in Islamabad, and turned it into a hub for illegal activities.

According to sources, the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the district administration and other agencies remain passive.

The mafia has placed charpoys (traditional beds) directly on the drain, and charges visitors Rs800 per hour for using them. In addition, food vendors offer substandard items at exorbitant prices, with half a pound of fritters costing Rs700 and parking charges fixed at Rs100.

Known for its affordability and natural beauty, Shahdara has long been a favorite destination for both Islamabad residents and tourists from other cities. However, the area has been overrun by private individuals and the hotel mafia, who have illegally occupied the government’s storm drains.

Visitors are first confronted with a parking fee of Rs100, for which no receipts are provided. Once inside, they come across illegal stalls and eateries set up on government land, with chairs, tables and charpoys placed directly on the drain.

The charges for using these facilities range from Rs500 to Rs1,000 per hour. Shockingly, even if visitors choose to sit on the grass next to the drain, they still have to pay Rs1,000 for the privilege.

The situation worsens when it comes to food. These unauthorised eateries offer extremely low-quality items at inflated prices, leaving visitors shocked. A small plate of fritters, weighing less than half a pound, costs between Rs700 and Rs1,000. A cup of poorly made tea costs Rs150 and a single piece of bread is sold for Rs50.

A family ordering a modest meal of dal or chicken with bread can expect to pay no less than Rs5,000. If a visitor dares to protest against the high prices or the substandard quality of the food, they are met with rude behaviour, threats and in some cases, forcible eviction from the area.

Families with children often feel intimidated by the aggressive behavior of the staff and therefore have to pay.

When asked for comment, the hotel staff claimed ownership of the land and claimed that they had the right to allow or deny seating. However, when questioned about the drain being public property, they could not give a satisfactory answer and reacted hostilely. The staff further claimed that both the CDA and the district administration receive regular payments from them, due to which no one can challenge their activities.

Visitors expressed their frustration and helplessness.