By In a major smart city move, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced that the Islamabad M-Tag digital parking system will now be mandatory for every vehicle entering the city. CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, revealed the new policy during a high-level meeting at CDA Headquarters on Wednesday.
Senior CDA Board members, Director Generals, Islamabad’s Deputy Commissioner, Excise and Taxation Officers, ICT officials, and other key authorities were present to finalize the decision.
M-Tags Now Required for All Vehicles Entering Islamabad
Under the new plan, all cars must have an M-Tag—an electronic identification sticker used to monitor and manage vehicles entering the capital. Vehicles without valid M-Tags will be denied entry, a move expected to strengthen traffic monitoring and city security.
This mandatory step is part of Islamabad’s larger goal to modernize its traffic and parking infrastructure.
Digital Parking System With Cashless Payments
To complement the M-Tag initiative, CDA is introducing a comprehensive digital parking solution across Islamabad. This system will first be deployed in busy commercial zones and high-traffic areas, where smart parking meters with variable rates based on congestion will be installed.
CDA Chairman Randhawa said, “Through the Islamabad M-Tag digital parking system, we aim to cut down illegal parking, reduce traffic jams, and save citizens time by letting them book parking spaces through mobile apps with cashless transactions.”
Residents will be able to find, reserve, and pay for parking spots using a dedicated mobile app or QR codes, eliminating the need for manual tickets and cash handling.
CDA’s One Window to Go Fully Digital
As part of its smart city vision, the CDA’s One Window Facilitation Center is also going fully digital. Citizens will soon be able to pay for parking fees, property dues, and utility bills through mobile apps, debit or credit cards, or by scanning a QR code, making the entire process easier and more transparent.
Better Urban Management and City Security
Authorities believe the integrated Islamabad M-Tag digital parking and cashless transaction system will improve urban mobility and boost surveillance for law enforcement agencies. Daily vehicle flow surveys will be conducted to fine-tune the system and ensure it works smoothly for everyone.
To help citizens adjust, CDA plans to roll out public awareness campaigns, educating drivers about M-Tag registration, digital parking, and cashless payment options.
Islamabad Moves Closer to Smart City Goals
By enforcing mandatory M-Tags and a digital parking system, Islamabad is setting a precedent for other cities in Pakistan to follow. This initiative not only addresses traffic congestion and illegal parking but also helps modernize urban infrastructure and support the country’s digital transformation goals.
Are you ready for Islamabad’s smart parking revolution? Make sure to get your M-Tag on time and download the CDA’s upcoming parking app to enjoy hassle-free, cashless parking in the city!
