IHC seeks response on new Blue Area entry fee, summons MCI chief

WEB DESK: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a written order on a petition challenging the imposition of an entry fee for access to the service road in the New Blue Area, Islamabad, and directed the Administrator of the Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) to appear in person on Monday.

Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir issued the order while hearing the petition filed by Advocate Tayyab. The court also issued notices to the Interior Secretary, the Chief Commissioner Islamabad and MCI, seeking their replies on the matter, according to APP.

Petitioner terms charges unlawful

According to the petition, commercial markets, corporate head offices and restaurants are located in the New Blue Area, where MCI is charging Rs100 for the use of the service road.

The petitioner argued that the levy is not a parking fee but is being imposed on all users of the road, regardless of parking activity.

It was further contended that the civic body is not providing any corresponding facility or service in return for the charges being collected, rendering the imposition unjustified and unlawful.

Legal challenge to civic fee

The petition maintained that the imposition of an entry fee for access to the area is in violation of superior court judgments. It urged the court to declare the MCI’s decision to levy such charges illegal and without lawful authority.

The court will resume proceedings after receiving replies from the relevant authorities and the appearance of the MCI administrator.