Islamabad: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has approved the introduction of a QR code payment system for businesses, restaurants, and commercial hubs in Islamabad, marking a significant step toward a cashless economy.
The decision was made during a high-level meeting at CDA headquarters, chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa. The initiative aims to modernize financial transactions, enhance transparency, and promote digital payments across the city. Read: CDA begins work on Mass Transit Master Plan 2030
As part of the first phase, the QR code payment system will be rolled out in key commercial areas, including Blue Area, Food Street, and parking plazas. Businesses integrating with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) through digital payment systems may also receive incentives to encourage adoption. Consumers will have the option to choose between digital and cash payments.
Beyond cashless transactions, the meeting also focused on Islamabad’s transformation into Pakistan’s first fully digital city. Plans include the implementation of a smart traffic management system with drone surveillance, real-time congestion monitoring using Google data, and automated speed monitoring. Immediate measures will be taken at 11 key locations to ease traffic congestion, with further expansion under consideration.
The CDA is also exploring the provision of free Wi-Fi and high-speed internet in various parts of the city to support the digital shift. Notably, the CDA’s One Window Operation has already been fully digitized, ensuring that all payments are processed online.
Chairman Randhawa emphasized that Islamabad’s digital transformation will set a benchmark for the entire country, improving governance, public convenience, and overall efficiency. He reaffirmed the CDA’s commitment to modernizing the city’s infrastructure, making Islamabad a model for smart urban development in Pakistan.
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