Rawalpindi : The State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) Rawalpindi office has launched a “Go Cashless” campaign in 13 livestock markets to promote digital payments during Eid-ul-Adha trading.
Under the campaign, bank stalls have been set up in major cattle markets across Rawalpindi division, where representatives are present round the clock to register buyers and traders for online payments. The initiative aims to reduce the risks associated with carrying large amounts of cash, including theft, robbery and counterfeit notes.
“Buyers no longer need to bring large sums of cash to markets, and traders do not have to handle physical money, which improves safety and transparency,” said Umar Khattak, Senior Joint Director, SBP Rawalpindi.
The 13 markets covered include Bhata Chowk Mandi, Chakri Road, Rawat Mandi, Gujar Khan, Wah Cantt, Taxila, Kahuta, Chakwal, Talagang, Dina, Dhadiyal, Kallar Syedan and Pachnand.
At Bhata Chowk Mandi, banks have set up on-ground booths to resolve payment issues on the spot and remove obstacles to digital transactions. SBP Rawalpindi, in collaboration with the district administration and Cantonment Board, has provided free space for banks and fintech firms.
More than 10 banks and fintech companies are participating to onboard traders and related service providers, such as animal feed shops and cold drink stalls.
In areas without regular livestock markets, such as parts of Rawalpindi and Gilgit-Baltistan, SBP is promoting individual-level digital onboarding of traders. Buyers and traders at the markets welcomed the initiative. Several said they now feel safer and no longer worry about fake notes or robbery. Both sides described digital payments as a safer and more transparent way to conduct transactions.
The campaign is part of SBP’s broader push to expand digital financial services and reduce reliance on cash in high-footfall markets during Eid-ul-Azha.
