The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has taken significant steps regarding the petition challenging the imposition of an entry fee for the New Blue Area. Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir presided over the hearing of the petition filed by Advocate Muhammad Tayyab, delivering important observations on the matter.
In early April 2026, the Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) introduced a Rs. 100 fee for vehicles entering the New Blue Area, citing traffic management as the primary reason. This area is known for its commercial markets, corporate offices, and numerous restaurants, which have experienced a notable surge in visitor numbers recently.
Advocate Muhammad Tayyab submitted the petition opposing the entry fee, with lawyers Zohaib Gondal and Hazrat Younis representing the petitioner in court. The petition names the Home Secretary, Chief Commissioner, and MCI Administrator as respondents.
The legal team argued that the New Blue Area’s service road is being charged at Rs. 100, not as a parking fee but simply for access. They emphasized that the MCI has not provided any additional services or facilities in exchange for this charge. Furthermore, the petition highlighted that imposing such a fee contradicts prior High Court rulings.
In a significant development, the IHC questioned the legal basis under which the fee is being levied and requested formal responses from the relevant authorities. The court has summoned the MCI Administrator to appear in person on Monday. Notices have also been issued to the Home Secretary, Chief Commissioner, and MCI, with the hearing adjourned until then.
