Cashless System Mandated for Big Marts
The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) has announced that all major marts in the federal capital will be required to adopt a cashless payment system. The measure is designed to modernize retail operations, enhance transparency, and improve consumer convenience. Under the new directive, markets sealed for violations will not be allowed to reopen unless they have implemented digital payment facilities.
Review Meeting and Key Decisions
The decision was taken during a review meeting chaired by Director IFA Irfan Memon. Also present were the Deputy Director of Operations, the Deputy Director of Admin, and ADC East. The officials resolved that cashless systems would now form a critical part of compliance requirements for food businesses operating in Islamabad.
Food Safety Inspections and Penalties
During the past month, IFA inspected 1,025 restaurants and food outlets across the city. Of these, 81 restaurants were fined over Rs 1.3 million for failing to meet food safety standards, while 83 outlets producing hazardous food items were sealed. A total of 30 public complaints were also addressed, reflecting the authority’s commitment to consumer protection.
Licensing and Enforcement
The Islamabad Food Authority issued 359 new licenses to restaurants and shops during the same period. Licensing procedures are being accelerated to improve compliance and streamline operations. Director Irfan Memon emphasized that strict measures would continue to be enforced against violators, with swift action taken based on citizen complaints.
Unsafe Products Removed from Market
As part of its food safety operations, the IFA destroyed significant quantities of hazardous items. This included 992 kilograms of unsafe meat, 262 liters of beverages, 120 liters of expired liquid items, and 1,814 liters of unsafe dairy products. These actions were carried out to prevent the distribution of substandard food and safeguard public health in Islamabad.
Commitment to Consumer Protection
Director Irfan Memon reiterated that there would be no compromise on food safety. He directed officials to accelerate licensing and enforcement measures further while ensuring quick responses to citizen complaints. The introduction of cashless systems in big marts is seen as a step toward digital transformation in the food retail sector, enhancing accountability and customer convenience.
