Special Reporter ISLAMABAD: The Department of Tourist Services (DTS), working under the Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination, has initiated action against five restaurants and cafés operating in Park View City, Islamabad, over alleged failure to obtain mandatory registration or licences from the department.
Official documents available with The News show that separate show-cause notices have been issued to China Town, Second Cup Coffee, Chaaye Khana, Eat N Spicy, and Andaaz Desi & Mughlai Cuisine.
The notices, dated September 11, 2026, were issued by DTS Deputy Controller Tariq Mehmood.
According to the notices, the establishments are allegedly operating without restaurant registration or licences from the department, which the DTS has termed a violation of Sections 5(1) and 7 of the Pakistan Hotel & Restaurant Act, 1976.
The department said the establishments had earlier been served letters dated February 12, 2026, directing them to comply with the regulatory requirements. According to the notices, they failed to comply with those directions, prompting the department to initiate show-cause proceedings.
Each establishment has been directed to submit a written explanation within seven days of receiving the notice, explaining why action should not be taken under Section 22(1) of the Pakistan Hotel & Restaurant Act, 1976.
The notices state that proceedings may result in a penalty of up to Rs5,000. In case of continued failure to comply, an additional penalty of up to Rs1,000 per day may also be imposed. The department has further stated that the penalty amount is recoverable as arrears of land revenue.
Copies of the notices have also been forwarded to the SHO of Bani Gala Police Station and the office of the Inspector General of Police, Islamabad. The DTS informed the police that the establishments were allegedly not paying the prescribed federal government fee under the Pakistan Hotels and Restaurants Act, 1976 and Rules, 1977, and requested action to stop what it described as their “illegal operation”.
The action indicates that restaurants and cafés, including established food brands, are required to meet the registration and licensing requirements applicable to the hospitality sector in the federal capital.
The notices, however, constitute show-cause proceedings and not a final determination of liability. The establishments have been given an opportunity to submit their responses before further action is taken.
