M-Tag mandatory for Islamabad entry

The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has announced that from January 1, vehicles without M-Tags will not be allowed to enter the federal capital, marking the next phase of the city's electronic vehicle management system.

The decision has been taken on the directives of Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who has ordered strict enforcement against non-compliant vehicles once the system becomes fully operational. Authorities confirmed that enforcement will be carried out through automated tag readers installed at major entry points and checkpoints across the city, eliminating the need for manual vehicle checks.

Officials said the initiative aims to regulate traffic flow, strengthen digital record-keeping, and enhance security oversight by ensuring that all vehicles entering Islamabad are properly registered within the system.

To facilitate smooth implementation, the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad has directed all relevant departments to accelerate the issuance of M-Tags and reduce waiting times. At present, 16 M-Tag issuance points are operational across Islamabad, strategically located to cover major sectors and approach roads. Since the launch of the registration process on 14 November, nearly 100,000 vehicles have already been issued electronic tags.

Briefing on the implementation plan, Deputy Commissioner Irfan Memon stated that once tag readers become fully active from January 1, action will commence against vehicles lacking M-Tags. He added that the system has been tested, staff trained, and coordination established between the district administration and Islamabad Traffic Police to ensure seamless enforcement.

Officials noted that the M-Tag system would also support law enforcement and urban management, providing real-time digital data on vehicle movement, assisting in traffic monitoring, and improving response to violations and security concerns.

Citizens have been urged to complete the registration process well before the deadline to avoid inconvenience. Authorities have reiterated that no exemptions will be granted after January 1, and compliance remains the responsibility of vehicle owners.

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, during a recent visit to the Safe City Headquarters, reaffirmed the government's commitment to transforming Islamabad into Pakistan's first "Capital Smart City." Accompanied by Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, he reviewed surveillance and monitoring systems and directed officials to fast-track the integration of key civic services - including traffic management, Rescue 1122, security operations and the Capital Development Management Authority (CDMA) - into a centralised digital framework.