In response to the deadly mosque suicide bombing in Islamabad, the city’s district administration has announced strict regulations for taxi and motorcycle ride-hailing drivers.
Drivers will no longer be allowed to carry passengers without recording their National Identity Card (NIC) number on their respective apps.
The measures aim to strengthen security across the capital, particularly after the February 6, 2026, mosque attack in Tarlai, which left 32 worshippers dead and more than 150 injured.
Registration of All Ride-Hailing Vehicles
The Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad confirmed that all online taxis and motorcycles will now undergo formal registration, with complete driver and vehicle data collected in a digital automation-based system.
Also read: Pakistan has more mosques than educational institutes
Islamabad Police will have full access to this data through a dedicated registration application. Drivers will be required to upload passenger details on the app, ensuring that carrying passengers without NIC verification is strictly prohibited.
Implementation and Crackdown on Unregistered Vehicles
The registration process is set to begin Tuesday, as directed by the Deputy Commissioner.
-
The Additional Deputy Commissioner East will coordinate with chief executives of all taxi services.
-
The Secretary of the Islamabad Transport Authority has been tasked with cracking down on unregistered motorcycle ride services.
These steps are part of a broader effort to enhance public safety in the city following the recent terrorist attack.
Details of the Mosque Attack
The suicide bomber involved in the Tarlai mosque attack was identified as having received terrorist training in Afghanistan. Investigations suggest that he had traveled to Afghanistan multiple times and returned to Pakistan before carrying out the attack.
Sources indicate a potential nexus between Afghanistan and India in supporting terrorist activities in Pakistan.