The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has directed the administration to provide relief to students regarding the mandatory M-tag system for motorcycles entering and leaving the capital. During a hearing, Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfaraz Dogar asked the administration to ensure that students receive concessions and are not burdened by the mandatory vehicle tracking system.
The M-tag system, which records vehicles entering and leaving Islamabad, was introduced following the tragic Kachehri blast. In that incident, an unchecked motorcyclist caused an explosion that killed 12 people and injured 36. Authorities argued that the M-tag policy was necessary to prevent similar tragedies and strengthen monitoring at the city’s entry and exit points.
However, students have expressed frustration at having to comply with the system, citing added costs and inconvenience. During the hearing, Chief Justice Dogar noted that in the past, students were often granted relief in similar situations, and the same approach should be followed today.
State counsel Abdul Rehman told the court that the policy was aimed purely at addressing security risks. DSP Legal Sajid Cheema, representing the police, also supported the policy as a preventive measure.
Despite acknowledging the security concerns, the court instructed authorities to implement the policy in a way that does not cause undue hardship to students.
The court has asked the administration to submit its detailed response on how student exemptions or concessions will be provided and adjourned the case until April 6.
