Islamabad’s iconic Kabul Restaurant, a culinary landmark in F-7 for decades, recently made headlines after its outdoor dining area was sealed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for failing to comply with the city’s new cashless payment regulations. These regulations were introduced as part of the Government of Pakistan’s Digital Pakistan initiative, aimed at modernizing transactions, enhancing financial inclusion, and reducing reliance on cash.
The situation gained widespread attention following a viral social media post by a citizen criticizing the restaurant for refusing digital payments and alleging potential tax evasion. The post quickly attracted public debate, highlighting the growing awareness and demand for cashless transactions in the capital city. In response, CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa revoked the restaurant’s approval for open-air dining, citing non-compliance with the cashless policy. The action received public support and was acknowledged by Minister of IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja, who appreciated the swift enforcement of the government’s digital initiative.
Amid this controversy, Zindigi, powered by JS Bank, played a critical role in facilitating a smooth transition to digital payments for Kabul Restaurant. Leveraging its Raast P2M QR payment solution, Zindigi was able to digitally onboard the restaurant within minutes, enabling customers to make instant, secure, and cashless transactions. This swift response reinforced Zindigi’s position as a leading driver of digital financial transformation in Pakistan, demonstrating how fintech solutions can bridge the gap between regulatory compliance and business continuity.
This development serves as a prime example of effective public–private collaboration. The coordinated efforts between government authorities and Zindigi showcased how policy enforcement and technological innovation can work together to accelerate financial inclusion, enhance customer convenience, and promote a cashless economy. By rapidly integrating digital payment solutions into a high-profile commercial space, Zindigi not only resolved an immediate compliance issue but also set a benchmark for other businesses across the country.
Social media users and citizens widely appreciated the coordinated effort by Zindigi and Islamabad’s District Administration. Key figures, including CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa and Dr. Anam Fatima, Chief Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI), were praised for their proactive governance and commitment to promoting a cashless city. Zindigi’s role in enabling real-time digital payments at Kabul Restaurant further highlighted the impact of strong public–private partnerships in driving meaningful change in Pakistan’s financial ecosystem.
The incident underscores the growing importance of digital payments in Pakistan and illustrates how fintech companies can complement government initiatives to create tangible improvements in everyday business operations. By facilitating immediate adoption of cashless systems, Zindigi continues to demonstrate that digital innovation is not only feasible but also essential for modernizing commerce, improving transparency, and fostering economic growth.
As Islamabad moves closer to becoming a fully cashless city, initiatives like these emphasize the role of technology in transforming traditional businesses and reinforcing the vision of a digitally empowered Pakistan. Zindigi’s swift action at Kabul Restaurant is a testament to how agile fintech solutions can convert regulatory challenges into opportunities for progress and financial inclusion.
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