The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced a major shift towards a cashless digital payment system, marking a significant step in modernizing Islamabad’s financial transactions. The decision was finalized during the fourth CDA Board meeting, chaired by Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, with all board members in attendance. This move aims to enhance financial transparency, streamline payment processes, and mitigate the risks associated with cash handling.
During the meeting, CDA officials revealed that 165 services available at the One Window Operation have already transitioned to digital payments. This transformation also extends to essential municipal services, including water tanker charges and Islamabad Water accounts, which are now integrated with QR code-based cashless payments. By adopting digital financial solutions, the CDA is striving to provide residents with a more efficient and secure method of handling transactions.
The digital payment initiative is set to expand further, covering all CDA financial transactions, including fines levied by the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA), the Environment Department, and the Enforcement Department. This widespread adoption of cashless payments will not only improve efficiency but also reduce the possibility of financial mismanagement.
To complement this transition, the CDA Board has also approved the implementation of the SAP double-entry accounting system. This advanced financial management system is expected to enhance transparency and ensure better record-keeping of the authority’s financial operations. Chairman Randhawa has instructed officials to compile a comprehensive record of CDA’s assets by the end of the fiscal year. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of a corporate-style financial report that would outline the authority’s key achievements and future targets.
In an effort to ensure the seamless execution of this initiative, CDA plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Controller General of Pakistan next week. This agreement will formalize the implementation of the SAP system, reinforcing accountability and digital governance within the CDA’s financial structure.
Additionally, a dedicated committee has been established to oversee the transition and address any potential challenges. The committee is led by the Member Finance and includes the Director of Land, the Director of Municipal Administration, and the Director General of the Building Control Section. One of its primary responsibilities is to identify and document all CDA properties rented out in Islamabad, further strengthening financial oversight.
As digital transformation continues to reshape Pakistan’s financial landscape, CDA’s decision to go fully cashless underscores a broader shift toward digital governance and financial inclusion. By embracing technology-driven solutions, the authority is setting a precedent for efficient and transparent public sector financial management.
This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to promote digital payments and reduce reliance on cash transactions, ensuring that government services are more accessible and efficient for citizens. As the CDA moves forward with this transition, the implementation of a robust digital infrastructure will be key to ensuring its long-term success.
