KARACHI, Nov 29: Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad on Wednesday inaugurated a newly-established kiosk for utility bills payment through automated machines in North Nazimabad, and with the setting up of this facility, 58 machines have been set up across the city by the National Database and Registration Authority.

The Nadra plans to increase the number of machines to 70 in the city by the end of the year. Mr Ibad lauded the Nadra for introducing various projects to facilitate people and said such a solution was necessary to overcome the problems faced by the people.

He said people must get themselves registered with Nadra and get their CNICs as soon as possible for availing facilities offered by Nadra.

Nadra officials said the concept of bill payment system had been developed in view of difficulties being faced by the people, and it was for the first time in Pakistan that arrangement has been made to pay utility bills through a computerized system in cash.

The bill payment machines would be operational round-the-clock, offering a unique opportunity to financial and commercial institutions and service sector organizations to improve their workflow and provide greater satisfaction to their clients, the Nadra officials said.

They further stated that apart from the kiosks, five counters have been established at various swift centres in the city to receive utility bills.

The kiosk has been designed to have maximum graphics, which would enable a layman to use the system conveniently. A touch screen is utilized which is easy to operate by all sections of society. The system accepts cash, which is predominantly used by the low-income groups.

The governor was informed that Nadra-designed machines have been manufactured by two local companies.

Of the 240 kiosks installed throughout Pakistan in the first phase, 140 have locally-made machines while the rest of the machines have been procured from China, the officials said, adding the Nadra has issued more than 70 million computerized national identity cards to adult population in the country.

Director-General Nadra (Sindh) and other senior officials were also present.