The Islamabad administration has announced a significant extension for the mandatory installation of M-Tags on motorcycles, pushing the deadline well beyond the original cutoff date. Initially set to conclude on February 28, the new deadline now allows motorcycle owners in the federal capital until March 5, 2026, to complete this essential registration process. This extension comes as a response to numerous public requests and aims to provide ample time for those who faced difficulties in meeting the earlier deadline.
Deputy Commissioner and Director General Excise, Irfan Nawaz Memon, revealed that the decision was made after careful consideration of the challenges faced by citizens, including long queues and limited access to registration centers. He emphasized that the extension is designed to accommodate those who could not finalize their M-Tag installations due to the rush or other unforeseen circumstances. The authorities hope this additional time will encourage full compliance and reduce the pressure on registration facilities.
In light of the upcoming holy month of Ramadan, the administration has also adjusted the operating hours of M-Tag centers across Islamabad. Some centers will now remain open 24 hours a day, while others will operate in 12-hour or 8-hour shifts. This change aims to facilitate easier access for motorcycle owners, especially during fasting hours, by minimizing crowding and expediting the registration process. Officials believe that these flexible timings will significantly improve the overall efficiency of the campaign.
Statistics released by the administration highlight the progress made so far: a total of 8,928 motorcycles have been equipped with M-Tags, with 2,069 installations occurring in the last 24 hours alone. Overall, 238,080 vehicles have been tagged to date, indicating steady momentum in the government’s efforts to enhance traffic management and public safety. The M-Tag system is expected to play a crucial role in improving vehicle tracking capabilities for law enforcement agencies in Islamabad.
Moreover, the registration process for other vehicle categories, including online taxis, continues uninterrupted alongside the motorcycle tagging campaign. Irfan Nawaz Memon urged all motorcycle owners to complete their M-Tag installation before the extended deadline to avoid any legal repercussions. He warned that those failing to comply by March 5, 2026, may face penalties or other enforcement actions as per the law.
The administration has appealed to the public for cooperation, stressing that timely compliance will not only help avoid fines but also contribute to smoother traffic flow and enhanced security throughout the city. As Islamabad moves forward with this initiative, officials remain committed to ensuring that the M-Tag system benefits all residents by fostering safer and more efficient roadways.
