Federal Ombudsman's Intervention Resolves Vehicle Registration Issues in Islamabad with One-Window Facility and Awareness Campaign

The Wafaqi Mohtasib, Ejaz Ahmad Qureshi, directed the Excise and Taxation Office (ETO) to establish a one-window facilitation desk for vehicle registration and transfer services. An inspection team investigated and reported that the ETO currently offers online and on-site registration facilities, including mobile teams providing services at parks. Additionally, the team discovered that agents were illegally charging fees for registration forms and photocopies. The Mohtasib instructed the ETO to launch an awareness campaign and prominently display registration requirements and online registration information for public convenience.

Wafaqi Mohtasib's Intervention Yields Concrete Solutions for Islamabad Vehicle Registration Woes: One-Window Facility and Awareness Campaign Launched

Islamabad, April 25, 2024 (ISPR): In a significant move to alleviate the longstanding grievances faced by the citizens of Islamabad in registering their vehicles, the Wafaqi Mohtasib (Federal Ombudsman), Ejaz Ahmad Qureshi, has directed the Excise and Taxation Office (ETO) to establish a comprehensive one-window facility and launch a robust awareness campaign.

Acting on the directives of the Wafaqi Mohtasib, a senior inspection team from his office visited the ETO office on Thursday, embarking on a comprehensive investigation into the challenges faced by the public. The team meticulously gathered feedback from individuals present, carefully documenting their complaints for immediate resolution.

The inspection team's diligent efforts culminated in a comprehensive report submitted to the Wafaqi Mohtasib, who swiftly issued directives for the establishment of a dedicated one-window facilitation desk within the ETO office. This groundbreaking initiative will provide citizens with seamless access to all essential services related to vehicle registration under a single roof, eliminating the inconvenience of navigating multiple touchpoints.

In a positive development, the ETO office informed the inspection team that essential services, including vehicle registration, transfer of registration, and token tax payment, are now conveniently available online for the public's convenience. Additionally, the ETO office has extended its services to the doorsteps of applicants, offering these facilities at their residences for a nominal fee of Rs. 1900.

Furthermore, the ETO office has deployed dedicated mobile teams to serve the public in public parks and other common areas daily from 4 pm onwards, ensuring that registration services are readily accessible to all.

Lauding the efforts of the ETO office, the Wafaqi Mohtasib emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate the public about these vital services. He firmly believes that informed citizens are empowered to make informed decisions and navigate administrative procedures with greater ease.

During the inspection team's visit, several petitioners raised concerns about a rampant agent mafia operating within the ETO office, charging exorbitant fees for basic services. They alleged that a single registration form was being sold for Rs. 200, while photocopy charges were inflated to Rs. 50 per page.

The inspection team took swift action, instructing the ETO office administration to prominently display all necessary requirements for registration, transfer, and token tax submission in English and Urdu on signboards throughout the premises. Additionally, they emphasized the need to provide clear and concise information on online registration procedures.

The Wafaqi Mohtasib's proactive intervention and the ETO office's swift response mark a turning point in the streamlining of vehicle registration services in Islamabad. The establishment of a one-window facility, the launch of an awareness campaign, and the crackdown on exploitative agents will significantly enhance the public's experience and reduce instances of frustration and inconvenience.

The Wafaqi Mohtasib's Office remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the rights and interests of citizens, ensuring that public services are delivered with efficiency, transparency, and fairness.