The Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) has initiated consultations for its Open Space Policy 2026–27, proposing a regulatory framework for the use of public open spaces by commercial establishments while ensuring pedestrian movement, accessibility, parking, traffic circulation and protection of green areas. A consultation meeting was held between MCI officials and representatives of restaurant owners and their association, chaired by MCI Chief Officer Dr. Anam Fatima. The proposed policy seeks to establish transparent rules allowing reasonable commercial activity without compromising public convenience or access to designated open spaces.

A consultation meeting was held between MCI officials and representatives of restaurant owners and their association, chaired by MCI Chief Officer Dr. Anam Fatima. The proposed policy seeks to establish transparent rules allowing reasonable commercial activity without compromising public convenience or access to designated open spaces.

Under the proposed framework, open spaces will remain accessible to the public, while stalls, counters, displays and other obstructions affecting pedestrian pathways, parking areas or public access will not be permitted. Existing green areas and street furniture will be protected, while establishments that have altered designated green or open spaces may be required to restore them to their approved condition.

For the public sit-out area at F-10 Markaz, restaurants around the site will be allowed to temporarily use their frontage for seating for two weeks. The arrangement will be subject to conditions ensuring that pedestrian movement, public access, traffic circulation and emergency routes remain unobstructed. After the temporary period, seating arrangements will be regulated through the prescribed open-space and seating licensing procedure.

The MCI Chief Officer also directed the Directorate of Municipal Administration to continue its transition towards cashless, paperless and contactless municipal administration.

Applications for relevant licenses and permissions will be submitted through the designated National Information Technology Board (NITB) online portal, while MCI and restaurant representatives agreed on an approach aimed at protecting public spaces while permitting commercial activity within the prescribed regulatory framework.

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