RAWALPINDI:
Zindigi, powered by JS Bank, in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Rawalpindi, has completed the digitisation of Saddar Bazar, Bank Road Cantt — one of the city’s busiest commercial hubs — through the Raast QR payment system.
The initiative, implemented under SBP’s broader financial inclusion framework, marks a significant step in Pakistan’s transition toward a cashless economy. By transforming a high-traffic marketplace into a digitally enabled zone, the project is being positioned as a replicable model for other commercial centres nationwide.
Under the Zindigi Raast QR system, merchants can receive secure and instant payments from customers using any participating bank or digital wallet. The “scan and pay” feature offers real-time transaction confirmation, improving efficiency, transparency and convenience for both buyers and sellers.
Officials said the move is aimed at strengthening digital adoption among small and medium-sized businesses while expanding access to formal financial channels.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior civil and military officials, business leaders and representatives of trade bodies, reflecting broad public-private collaboration. The initiative also received support from the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board.
Commenting on the launch, Zindigi’s chief officer described Saddar Bazar as a “live lab” for next-generation payment solutions, calling it a blueprint for smart, digitally connected markets across Pakistan.
The development underscores growing momentum behind digital payments as regulators and financial institutions intensify efforts to formalise the economy and reduce reliance on cash.
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