Zindigi Digitizes Kabul

Islamabad’s iconic Kabul Restaurant, a culinary landmark in F-7 for decades, made headlines today after its open-air dining area was sealed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for non-compliance with the city’s new cashless payment regulations introduced under the Government’s Digital Pakistan initiative. The incident gained momentum following a viral social media post by a local citizen who criticized the restaurant for refusing to accept digital payments, alleging potential tax evasion. The post quickly spread across platforms, sparking widespread public debate on the restaurant’s practices. In response, CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa swiftly took notice and revoked the restaurant’s approval for outdoor seating, citing non-compliance with the cashless policy. The action was applauded by Minister of IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, who retweeted Mr. Randhawa’s statement on X, appreciating the enforcement of the government’s digital initiative. Amidst the public attention, Zindigi, powered by JS Bank, once again demonstrated its leadership in advancing the Cashless Islamabad vision. Having already enabled the first cashless market of Pakistan (H-9 Bazaar), Zindigi stepped into digitally onboard Kabul Restaurant within minutes using its Raast P2M QR payment solution. This swift action allowed customers to make instant, secure, and cashless transactions, reinforcing Zindigi’s role as a driver of digital transformation in Pakistan’s economy. This development stands as a powerful example of effective public–private collaboration, showcasing how government policy and private innovation can align to accelerate financial inclusion and economic modernization. From challenges to change, Zindigi continues to turn every moment into progress. Citizens across social media appreciated the swift and coordinated response by Zindigi and Islamabad’s District Administration, particularly CDA Chairman & Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa and Dr. Anam Fatima Chief Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI ),for their proactive governance and commitment to enforcing the cashless economy vision. Alongside them, Zindigi’s rapid action in enabling digital payments at Kabul Restaurant drew widespread praise, a testament to how strong public–private partnerships can deliver real-time solutions and bring Pakistan closer to a truly cashless future.