Wed. Sep 17th, 2025
Islamabad Supermarts Shift to Digital Payments as IFA Tightens Food Standards

Islamabad Cashless Payment System in marts

In a major step towards transparency and consumer protection, authorities have announced the introduction of the Islamabad Cashless Payment System in marts. Under this policy, closed marts for violations will not be allowed to reopen unless they install a proper cashless payment facility. This decision aims to strengthen monitoring, reduce malpractice, and promote modern payment solutions in the federal capital.

Decision Details & Enforcement Policy

The decision was finalized during a review meeting chaired by Director IFA Irfan Memon, where it was made clear that violators will face strict action. Any mart sealed for violations will only be de-sealed once a cashless payment system is implemented. This move signals a no-compromise approach to both financial accountability and food safety laws.

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The Review Meeting: Leadership & Attendees

The meeting was chaired by Director Irfan Memon and attended by Deputy Director Operations, Deputy Director Admin, and ADC East. The agenda focused on strengthening compliance, reviewing monthly performance, and enforcing the new cashless system across major marts in Islamabad.

Operational Rule: De-sealing Conditions

It was clearly stated that the marts found violating laws will remain sealed until the Islamabad cashless payment system in the marts is in place. This rule ensures that only compliant businesses can resume operations, giving consumers more trust in fair practices.

Monthly Performance Review — Inspections & Actions Taken

The performance report presented during the meeting highlighted strict enforcement actions in the last month:

  • 1,025 restaurants and food outlets inspected
  • 81 restaurants fined more than Rs 1.3 million for selling substandard food
  • 83 outlets producing unhealthy food sealed

These numbers reflect the authority’s determination to improve public health while pushing for the cashless system.

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Public Complaints, Follow-ups & Licensing

During this period, 30 public complaints were promptly acted upon, showing that citizen concerns are being prioritized. Additionally, 359 new licenses were issued to restaurants and shops, with officials assuring that the licensing process will be further accelerated in the coming months. This will help more businesses comply with food safety regulations and prepare for cashless transactions.

Destruction of Unsafe Food Items

Large quantities of unsafe and expired items were destroyed to prevent them from reaching consumers. These included:

  • 992 kg of unsafe meat
  • 262 liters of beverages
  • 120 liters of expired liquids
  • 1,814 liters of unsafe dairy products

This step highlights the zero-tolerance policy against harmful food in Islamabad.

Director’s Directives & Zero-Tolerance Stance

Director Irfan Memon instructed officials to take immediate action against violators and make no concessions when it comes to defective or unsafe food. He also directed authorities to accelerate the complaint-handling process and the issuance of licenses. His stance reinforces the strict enforcement of both food safety and the Islamabad cashless payment system in marts.

Public Health & Consumer Protection Angle

The combined measures of cashless payment enforcement, strict inspections, sealing of violators, destruction of unsafe food, and fast-tracked licensing aim to improve public health and consumer trust. The cashless system will bring more transparency to financial transactions, while strict food checks will ensure safe products reach the public.

Implementation Challenges & Expected Outcomes

While businesses may face initial challenges in adapting to the new cashless setup, the system is expected to bring significant benefits:

  • Reduced risk of fraud and theft
  • Easier monitoring of financial transactions
  • Better compliance with regulations
  • Improved consumer trust in food quality and fair pricing

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Conclusion & Call to Action

The decision to enforce the Islamabad cashless payment system in marts alongside strict food safety inspections marks a major step in consumer protection. With 10,25 inspections, heavy fines, sealing of violators, and destruction of unsafe food, authorities have shown their commitment to public health. Businesses must prepare to adopt modern systems, while citizens should continue reporting violations to ensure accountability. The move reflects a future where food safety and transparent transactions go hand in hand.

By Agahi

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