Fatima Jinnah Park

Fatima Jinnah Park or sometimes known as F-9 park (pointing out the fact that the covered area is spread out through the entire sector) is a public recreational park situated in sector F-9 of Islamabad, Pakistan. The park is considered one of the largest (in terms of covered area) in South East Asia. It was named after the revered "Madre Millat" (Mother of the Nation) Miss Fatima Jinnah- younger sister of the founder of Pakistan.

Present state

Despite its colossal size and favorable environment not much progress has been made in turning these lush green acres of land into something more appropriate. With the exception of a few areas in the park which are close to the normal residential life of the people, most of the covered area literally serves as a wildlife sanctuary. With dense forests comprising of 16-18 feet tall trees, overgrown wild bushes and a few water pools here and there, it seems a perfect nesting ground for wild boars, birds, snakes and various rodents. Further more, the steel boundaries help to keep intruders out. The entire area is cordoned off with steel fences 5-6 feet high and a further strip of land is devoted outside along its boundary which has a few more trees and a crude foot path. But because F-9 park is such a huge area it is not easy to appreciate the places which have been built and maintained. The well laid foot paths inside with the neat grass and a few statues erected sparsely, is just the kind of scenic beauty one would expect from a park with such potential. Although the regular attendees would argue that developing further is a good prospect, it is not something urgently required. The familiar breeze of air and the sight of the "Shaheen" (Hawk) swooping down on its prey would all be gone once the technological advancements are brought in. Its like a wild life documentary going on there.

General public appeal

Most of the slumbering denizens of Islamabad (especially those in the surrounding areas) consider Fatima Jinnah Park as a healthy way to indulge themselves in a brisk 'walk' routine early morning after dawn or in the evening before dusk when the weather is pleasant. While sports activity is also common in some parts. Other ways in which the park is used includes driving lessons for learners; although the roads inside aren't managed properly for smooth driving (due to the lack of attendance) they still prove enough to teach young drivers how to negotiate a few tight turns.

Fatima Jinnah Park is constructed in small clusters at the moment; some parts are well developed and a favorite among people while others are hardly ever tread upon. One of such areas is the ""Megazone"" complex. It is a well built area which has a lot to offer to its customers. The sports area comprises a standard length swimming pool, table tennis tables and snooker. While the more contemporary activities include bowling bowl, arcade games, laser tag and other small games. There is a take away and dining area as well. And lastly there is an assortment of different shops on clothes, DVDs and other accessories.

More recently, F-9 park has received the much needed revitalization with the introduction of the famous fast food giant, "McDonald's", right inside its antique walls.

Future plans

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) which is in charge of the mega project has grand plans for the "sleeping heart" of Islamabad. And more so now that the general public of Islamabad has started taking keen interest in recreational themes. The proposed new outlook of the park will include a mix variety of lakes, rock gardens, aquariums and fountains.