Islamabad Edges Closer to Becoming Pakistan’s First Cashless City
Digital payment systems to replace cash across key civic services
ISLAMABAD — In a major stride toward digital governance, Islamabad is gearing up for a transition that could redefine how residents interact with civic services: going cashless. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has laid out a phased plan to digitize payments for several public services, aiming to turn the federal capital into a fully digital city.
The plan, greenlit during a senior-level meeting chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, kicks off with some of the most commonly used services. These include property tax payments, utility bills, land transaction fees, and even parking charges — all set to be payable through mobile apps and QR code-based systems.
“We’re not just going digital for the sake of it,” Randhawa emphasized. “This is about efficiency, transparency, and building a citizen-first model of governance.”
From Counters to Clicks
The shift will begin with a pilot rollout at selected departments and locations, after which the model will gradually expand citywide. The CDA is currently working with leading financial institutions to establish a secure, scalable digital framework that minimizes the risks typically associated with cash handling — such as fraud and delays — while also cutting down wait times at service counters.
This digital transition isn’t just about convenience; it’s designed to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and curb corruption by eliminating under-the-table transactions that thrive in cash-heavy systems.
A Model for Digital Inclusion
Experts believe this move reflects a broader national trend toward digital financial inclusion — a key priority for Pakistan in recent years. By enabling online payments for government services, Islamabad could become a blueprint for other cities looking to adopt smart governance strategies.
According to CDA officials, the endgame is full-spectrum digital integration, where every transaction between citizens and the city — from property dealings to parking tickets — can be completed online.
A CDA representative summed it up clearly: “The vision is simple — no lines, no paperwork, just seamless access to public services from your phone.”
As Pakistan continues to push for innovation in public administration, Islamabad’s cashless transformation could mark a defining moment in the country’s digital evolution — one where efficiency, accountability, and accessibility finally converge.
