Islamabad’s move toward becoming a fully digital capital gained major momentum as QR code–based payments were officially activated in metro services, urban transport and Sasta Bazaars. Officials said the upgrade is part of a large-scale cashless economy plan designed to simplify transactions and improve efficiency across the city. The initiative marks one of the most significant steps in Pakistan’s digital transformation efforts.
CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa confirmed that the One-Window Centre is now integrated into the system, allowing citizens to access public services without cash. Moreover, the QR network is expanding rapidly across major shopping malls, commercial centres and Class-III markets. Hotels, petrol pumps, restaurants and guesthouses are also joining the digital payment ecosystem.
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Randhawa urged commercial banks to increase awareness campaigns so that merchants and citizens can fully shift to digital payments. He stated that Islamabad is being developed as a model cashless city under the vision of national leadership. Traders and shopkeepers have also been encouraged to offer incentives and discounts to customers using Raast QR codes in daily transactions.
The city’s broader digitalisation plan includes parallel initiatives such as M-Tag integration and automated parking systems. Additionally, authorities believe these services will reduce congestion, improve transparency and support a technology-driven urban lifestyle. Officials added that the payment infrastructure is securely linked to the State Bank’s Raast platform for smooth and rapid transactions.
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Earlier, authorities began the citywide rollout of QR payments in markets, with expectations of full adoption by year-end. Randhawa noted that every shop in the federal capital will soon support QR scanning, while taxi drivers, ride-hailing riders and goods transporters will also accept fares through the system. The project is backed by banks and telecom companies and is expected to transform daily commerce in Islamabad.