NADRA to Increase Registration Counters in Karachi

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has unveiled a plan to expand its network of registration counters in Karachi, increasing the number from 359 to 550 by the close of the current fiscal year. The step is part of an ongoing effort to improve service delivery and make facilities more accessible to citizens.

Officials said the counters currently operate across mega centres and National Registration Centres in the city. Alongside the expansion, NADRA is introducing new digital solutions aimed at modernising its operations.

One of the key initiatives is the rollout of an online “Proof of Life” service through the Pak Identity mobile app, specifically designed to help pensioners. The feature addresses challenges faced by elderly citizens whose fingerprints may not register accurately due to age or health issues.

NADRA’s Director of Media, Syed Shabahat Ali, told The Express Tribune that the new feature will serve as a long-term solution for senior citizens, with provisions allowing close relatives—such as sons or daughters—to assist in completing the digital verification.

Ali also reminded citizens to record vital life events—such as births, marriages, divorces, and deaths—with their union councils to ensure NADRA’s data remains accurate and up to date.

In addition, the authority has started producing self-service kiosks, similar to ATMs, which will allow people to renew ID cards and access other registration services without visiting an office. The first kiosks will be placed at Karachi mega centres, before being expanded to airports, railway stations, malls, and other high-traffic locations.