Islamabad: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has introduced Islamabad’s first-ever digital car parking system, starting in G-8 Markaz, as reported on September 16.
As per details, CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa inaugurated the digital parking system during a visit to G-8 Markaz. Member Technology and Digitisation Nauman Khalid provided a detailed briefing on the project’s implementation and future roadmap. To encourage public participation, CDA has introduced the service free of charge for the first 10 days. The initial phase focuses on creating awareness about the new system, allowing residents to familiarise themselves with the digital payment options available.
By September 25, the CDA will also activate similar digital parking systems at key locations such as the parking lot adjacent to Centaurus Mall and the F-7 sector. In the next phase, digital parking will be extended to commercial hubs, including the under-construction Blue Area parking plaza. The CDA’s digital parking system offers users a variety of payment options, including credit and debit cards, QR codes, scratch cards, and cash deposits through machines. “The revenue generated from this system will be reinvested into upgrading the same market, ensuring continuous improvement,” said CDA Chairman Randhawa. He further noted that the digital parking initiative will positively impact local businesses and stimulate the city’s economy.
A joint venture between Pakistani and Chinese companies has been awarded the five-year contract for the project. Under the agreement, CDA will receive 75% of the revenue, while the contractor will receive 25%. For convenience, parking will remain free for the first 15 minutes, recognizing the need for quick stops such as ATM visits or small purchases.
The CDA’s Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA), responsible for managing parking operations, has faced scrutiny over alleged corruption in the manual collection of fees. An audit conducted in 2022 revealed substantial irregularities, prompting an inquiry into mismanagement and loss of revenue. The audit uncovered that parking fees at major sites like Shakarparian, Daman-i-Koh, and Centaurus were not properly accounted for, with fraudulent practices in the printing of parking ticket books contributing to revenue losses.
The digital system is expected to eliminate the loopholes identified in previous audits, where CDA and Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) sustained losses of over PKR 82 million. The transition to a digital platform offers real-time tracking of parking fees and will bring greater accountability to the city’s parking management system.
As part of the ongoing efforts, the CDA and MCI have formed an inquiry committee to investigate and rectify these issues, but the results are yet to be disclosed.
