The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is preparing to introduce digital parking systems across all major parks in Islamabad as part of its ongoing efforts to optimize resource management and enhance operational efficiency.
This announcement came after a high-level meeting chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa on December 19, 2024, where various initiatives aimed at improving CDA’s revenue generation and resource utilization were discussed.
The meeting, attended by senior CDA members, the Director General (DG) of the Resource Wing, Executive Director (ED) of Capital Hospital, and relevant officers, saw a comprehensive briefing on several key proposals. These proposals are focused on tapping into untapped resources, streamlining CDA’s operations, and ensuring financial sustainability.
Focus on Digital Parking, Resource Optimization
A key highlight of the meeting was the decision to introduce a digital parking system in all major parks of Islamabad. Chairman Randhawa emphasized that this initiative would not only streamline parking but also generate additional revenue, which will be reinvested into the development and maintenance of the city’s parks. “The revenue generated from the parks will be spent for development and maintenance of the parks,” Randhawa confirmed.
The digital parking system, already tested in select locations, is expected to improve parking efficiency and contribute significantly to the CDA’s efforts to better manage Islamabad’s public spaces. The project aims to leverage technology to create a seamless parking experience for residents and visitors.
At a later stage, the digital parking system will also be introduced in other key commercial areas, including the Blue Area parking plaza, which is currently under construction. The CDA’s Member of Technology shared that digital payments for parking would be made possible through seven different options, including credit and debit cards, QR codes, scratch cards, and cash through on-site machines.
It is expected that there will be no fee for parking during the first 15 minutes, as the officials recognize that many people park briefly for tasks such as using ATMs or picking up groceries and medicines.
Enhancing financial independence at Capital Hospital
In addition to the digital parking initiative, the meeting also focused on improving the financial and operational efficiency of the Capital Hospital.
Chairman Randhawa directed a reduction in local medicine purchases and called for the appointment of a Director of Finance to further boost the hospital’s financial self-reliance. He also requested the Executive Director of the hospital to present a detailed plan on how to improve the hospital’s financial viability.
Several proposals for the Environment Wing were also discussed during the meeting, including identifying new revenue-generating sites, re-auctioning inactive sites, and introducing premium recreational facilities in the city. Randhawa stressed the importance of effective coordination between various CDA directorates to ensure that these initiatives are implemented smoothly and on time.
The introduction of digital parking in Islamabad’s parks is part of a broader strategy to modernize public services, streamline operations, and improve the overall urban experience for residents. The CDA’s efforts to optimize its resources reflect a strong focus on making Islamabad a more sustainable and efficient city for both its residents and visitors.