The Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) has ordered restaurants across the capital to immediately clear public footpaths. This is part of a wider crackdown on encroachments affecting pedestrian walkways.
The directive follows a joint inspection of F-10 and F-11 markaz by the MCI Chief Officer and senior officials from the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA).
The new rules state that the restaurants can no longer place chairs, tables, planters, decor, or temporary structures on public walkways. Footpaths must stay completely clear at all times, officials said.
However, outdoor seating will now only be allowed in designated zones. These spaces must follow designs approved by both the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the MCI. Perimeter fencing and any other unauthorised structures around seating areas are also banned.
The MCI has asked restaurant owners to form a joint committee for a smoother policy implementation. This committee will prepare and submit a proposal covering outdoor seating plans that meet the approved guidelines.
Officials say the crackdown aims to restore order in busy commercial zones, where unchecked expansion by food outlets increasingly encroached public space meant for pedestrians. They added that similar enforcement action will continue in other markaz areas of Islamabad.
Digital licensing system on the way
Similarly, the DMA also plans to launch an online portal for restaurant owners. Through this portal, businesses will be able to apply for outdoor seating licenses using a standardised digital process, replacing the current informal system.
No timeline has been announced for when the online licensing portal will go live. Further details are expected as the committee is formed, and the digital system is developed.
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