ISLAMABAD (MNN); The Islamabad administration has deployed additional staff at M-Tag registration centres as vehicle owners rush to meet the January 15 deadline, with more than 120,000 vehicles already registered under the system. Authorities say the response has gained momentum in recent days as enforcement draws closer.
The M-Tag is a prepaid radio frequency identification (RFID) sticker affixed to a vehicle’s windshield, designed to automate toll and entry monitoring. When a vehicle passes through a toll plaza or designated checkpoint, scanners identify the vehicle and entry point, and the applicable charges are automatically deducted from the linked balance. The system removes the need for cash payments and long queues, while also supporting electronic monitoring of traffic movement.
As part of enhanced security measures and efforts to digitally link vehicles entering the federal capital, the administration has decided that vehicles without M-Tags will not be allowed to enter Islamabad after the extended deadline of January 15. Officials said the move aims to strengthen surveillance, improve traffic management and support law enforcement through real-time vehicle identification.
With around 12 days remaining before strict enforcement begins, officials reported steady progress in registrations. According to the Excise and Taxation Department, a total of 120,447 vehicles have so far been fitted with M-Tags, including 3,392 vehicles registered in the past 24 hours alone. Authorities expect these numbers to rise further as awareness increases and the deadline approaches.
Director General Excise and Taxation Irfan Memon said arrangements at all M-Tag centres have been reinforced to manage the growing number of visitors. He stated that additional staff have been deployed and adequate stock of M-Tags has been ensured to avoid shortages. These measures, he said, are intended to reduce waiting times and allow citizens to complete the registration process in a single visit.
DG Memon added that the deadline extension provides sufficient time for compliance, but warned that after January 15, strict action will be taken against vehicles without M-Tags. Checks will be carried out at 12 major entry points of the city with the support of the Safe City system. He said the installation of M-Tag readers at designated locations has already been completed and integrated with monitoring systems.
Officials confirmed that the electronic readers are now fully operational and capable of identifying vehicles entering Islamabad without valid tags. This digital setup is expected to enhance enforcement, improve traffic oversight and assist in tracking violations more efficiently.
The M-Tag initiative is part of broader efforts to streamline vehicle records and support digital governance. By linking vehicle data with electronic systems, authorities aim to improve identification at checkpoints, manage traffic flow more effectively and strengthen security arrangements across the capital.
Citizens have been advised to bring complete documentation when visiting registration centres to avoid delays. According to official guidelines, vehicle owners are required to present only two documents: the vehicle’s registration card or book, and the computerised national identity card of the owner. Original documents must be shown at the counter, while copies may be retained for record purposes.
Officials noted that incomplete documentation remains a common reason for delays and urged applicants to prepare in advance. The excise department reiterated that the January 15 deadline is final and encouraged vehicle owners not to wait until the last days, as a rush could lead to longer queues. Authorities stressed that early compliance will help citizens avoid inconvenience, checks and penalties once enforcement begins.
