Biometric verification curbs fraud at Islamabad excise dept

The Excise and Taxation Department (E&TD) Islamabad has reported significant improvements following the implementation of a mandatory biometric verification system for individuals submitting vehicle transfer or registration documents on behalf of vehicle owners. This measure has enhanced transparency and streamlined the process, ensuring greater security and accuracy in vehicle-related transactions. As per information available with Daily Times, the E&TD followed said move as a step to enhance transparency and to curb taut mafia who allegedly involved in fraudulent practices in the vehicle registration and transfer process. “The new requirement ensures that any person other than the registered owner of a vehicle must undergo biometric verification when handling such transactions. This initiative reflects the department’s commitment to adopting modern solutions for improving the integrity of its services and safeguarding public interests,” Director E&TD Bilal Azam Khan told this correspondent. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); He said that under this system (the biometric requirement) it is being observed that only genuine authorized persons are submitting the documents at the department, adding that it will no chance of any fraudulent practice is possible after now. Moreover, the Director claimed, the department is taking action against agent mafia on daily basis, requesting the citizens that they cooperate with the department by following such new initiatives. The sources in the department revealed that the as dozens of agents have been arrested outside the excise office who minted money off the public in lieu of helping them in past couple of months. “Surprising raids have been conducted by city administration to tackle this public concern,” they said, adding that all the legal action have been started after arrest. An Assistant Commissioner of Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), privy to the matter, stated that an effective and comprehensive crackdown against tout mafia is being carried out which will continue for the cleansing of the department E&TD. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Director Bilal Azam Khan further explained that the office has already expanded the diagram of its facilities to the citizens as, he added, number of new services have been started to maximum facilitate the masses. “Door-to-door service was one of its best provided new services of the E&TD through which citizens can avail facility of getting vehicle registration or transfer at their doorsteps,” he claimed. Besides, mobile van service also been started as the department’s van visits at various spots of the city to provide civic facilities to residents of the ICT to get their vehicle registration as well as access to various essential services . Under this initiative, the director recalled, the excise staff is on-site, offering a hassle-free experience for vehicle owners seeking registration, transfers, and token tax processing. While highlighting the feedback of the facility, an official at the department stated that this unprecedented initiative not only caters to vehicular paperwork but also opens a new gateway for the public to save their time and energy. He emphasized that it provides a seamless and efficient solution for various administrative needs. “Whether you are a vehicle owner looking to sort out your paperwork or in need of essential documents, this event promises efficiency with a touch of convenience to the masses,” he added. Apart from offering online and door-to-door services, the Excise and Taxation Department has upgraded its vehicle registration and transfer system. “For those who wish to register or transfer their vehicles by visiting our office, we now provide a quick service, completing the entire process within 10 to 15 minutes,” stated Bilal Azam Khan. He added that proper seating arrangements have also been made for visitors.