ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad administration has extended the deadline for installing m-tag on motorcycles until March 5.

The extension was announced as part of measures to facilitate citizens, with officials reporting that 8,928 motorcycles have already been fitted with M-Tags, including 2,069 bikes in the last 24 hours alone.

The decision was shared by Irfan Memon, who said the extension was granted to help citizens complete the process in time. He said all motorcycle owners must ensure m-tag installation by March 5, adding that no further relaxation should be expected.

According to officials of the Excise and Taxation Department Islamabad, the m-tag system is being implemented across the federal capital for both vehicles and motorcycles. The department said that so far, 238,080 vehicles have been issued M-Tags, reflecting ongoing progress under the tagging drive.

The director general said that the department is using all available resources to meet the deadline. He added that staff, equipment, and counters have been increased at various m-tag centers to manage the growing number of applicants, especially during the final days of the campaign.

Keeping in view the start of Ramazan, the department has also revised the working hours of m-Tag centers across Islamabad. Irfan Memon said the change aims to provide maximum convenience to citizens observing fasting while ensuring smooth continuation of the process.

Under the revised schedule, different centers are operating with 24-hour, 12-hour, and 8-hour shifts, depending on workload and location. Officials said that round-the-clock operations at selected centers are meant to reduce waiting time and clear backlogs during peak hours.

The department reported that public response has increased significantly over the past few days. In the last 24 hours alone, 2,069 motorcycles were tagged, showing a sharp rise as the deadline approaches. Officials expect further increase in turnout during the remaining two days.

The director general again appealed to citizens to ensure installation of M-Tags on both motorcycles and cars before March 5. He said failure to comply may lead to action under applicable rules once the deadline expires.

The Excise department said that information desks have also been set up at major centers to guide citizens about procedures, working hours, and documentation. Staff have been directed to facilitate applicants and ensure orderly operations.

As the deadline nears, officials continue to call on residents of the federal capital to cooperate with the M-Tag drive, saying timely compliance will help avoid issues after enforcement begins.

Published in Dawn, February 28th, 2026