Islamabad Moves Towards Smart City With Mandatory M-Tag, Digital Parking, and Cashless Transactions
Islamabad authorities have announced a series of new measures aimed at transforming the city into a safer and smarter capital. Under the leadership of Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman and Islamabad Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa, a high-level meeting was held at CDA Headquarters to review and implement digital initiatives, including the mandatory use of M-Tag vehicle identification, a comprehensive digital parking system, and cashless payments for municipal services.
During the meeting, attended by senior CDA board members, deputy commissioners, excise and taxation officers, and other top officials, it was decided that all vehicles entering Islamabad will now be required to have an M-Tag. Entry will be denied to vehicles without this digital identification system, which aims to streamline vehicular movement and bolster citywide security.
The meeting also approved the implementation of a citywide digital parking system. This will see the installation of parking meters in key locations, especially high-traffic areas, where parking charges will be higher to regulate congestion. The digital parking system, which has already been launched, will be further enhanced through the introduction of a mobile app and online platform. These tools will enable residents to reserve parking spots and pay fees via cashless transactions, significantly reducing time spent searching for parking and easing traffic pressure on city roads.
Muhammad Ali Randhawa instructed his team to conduct daily traffic surveys to monitor the volume of vehicles entering and leaving Islamabad, ensuring the efficacy of the new measures. He emphasized that the digital parking system will empower citizens to pay for parking using mobile apps or QR codes, supporting efficient, cash-free transactions. This modernization is also expected to curb illegal parking practices and improve the overall flow of traffic.
In addition, CDA’s One Window Facilitation Center is introducing a robust cashless payment system. Residents will be able to pay for various services, such as parking fees, utility bills, and property-related charges, via mobile applications, bank cards, or QR code scans, streamlining multiple public services under a unified digital platform.
Chairman Randhawa underscored the commitment to elevating Islamabad into a model smart city. He stated that the adoption of M-Tag technology, digital parking, and cashless systems will not only resolve longstanding parking issues and enhance convenience but also strengthen the city’s security infrastructure. These digital reforms are seen as pivotal steps in positioning Islamabad as a cutting-edge, exemplary capital for the nation.
