ISLAMABAD: A government plan to introduce water sports and tourism facilities at Simly Dam has triggered fresh environmental concerns, with experts and residents warning that commercial activity near Islamabad’s key drinking water reservoir could threaten one of the capital’s last remaining clean water sources.

Located nearly 30 kilometres east of Islamabad in the foothills of the Margalla range, Simly Dam has supplied clean water to the city since 1983 and currently fulfills around 40 percent of the capital’s water needs. Unlike Rawal Dam, which has suffered years of pollution and encroachments, Simly has largely remained protected due to its remote location and limited public access.

The controversy intensified after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed authorities to prepare plans for tourism development, recreational facilities and water sports around the reservoir during a recent visit to the site. Officials say the initiative could boost local employment and transform the area into a modern recreational destination.

The Capital Development Authority has also moved to appoint former CDA chairman Kamran Lashari as a consultant to prepare a broader tourism and cultural vision for Islamabad. Lashari was recently seen briefing the interior minister at Simly Dam, fueling speculation that major commercial activity could soon begin near the reservoir.

Environmental observers, however, fear the project could repeat mistakes seen at Rawal Dam and Pir Sohawa, where unchecked commercialisation and heavy tourist traffic damaged natural ecosystems. Critics point to past controversial projects during Lashari’s tenure, including developments later investigated by accountability agencies and challenged in courts.

Officials insist that any future development would include proper planning, safety measures and environmental safeguards. Yet concerns continue to grow that expanding tourism around Simly Dam could place Islamabad’s most reliable water source under long term ecological pressure, potentially creating another environmental crisis for the capital.