In a significant boost to digital connectivity, the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has expanded its free public Wi-Fi initiative to 22 cities across the province, doubling the reach of the program and bringing internet access to the fingertips of millions more.
In Lahore alone, the number of public Wi-Fi hotspots has grown from 230 to 430, making it highly easy for residents, students, and experts of that area to stay connected while on the move. Beyond Lahore, 11 new districts such as
- Kasur
- Nankana Sahib
- Sialkot
- Gujrat
- Jhelum
- Attock
- Hasan Abdal
- Sahiwal
- Okara
- Murree
- Sheikhupura
These districts have now been added to the network, joining the 11 already covered under the initiative.
This development is considered to be the integral component of the huge plan of the gov to convert Punjab into a digitally empowered region. Speaking about the expansion, PSCA officials said the move intends to bridge the digital divide, especially in semi-urban and underserved areas where stable internet could not reach easily.
Empowering Citizens with Free Connectivity
The numbers speak volumes. As per the PSCA, more than 37 million masses have gotten the access for the free Wi-Fi service since its launch. It has consumed over 905 terabytes of data so far.
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This is the strong manifestation of just how crucial public internet access has become for everyday life—from students studying on the go to small business owners, commuters, and tourists navigating city streets.
As part of this expansion, the PSCA has also made various upgradation in its infrastructure to Wi-Fi 6 technology, permitting for faster internet speeds, lower latency and reliable connections, especially in crowded urban centers like Lahore and Gujrat.
Initiative’s positive impacts upon the lives of the masses
It is not just considered to be a tech advancement—it’s a lifeline. College students can now download lectures between classes. Job seekers can submit online applications without paying for mobile data. Vendors and gig workers can better able to manage orders and payments in real time.
People who want to travel in Murree or other travel destinations now have the accessibility for the maps and services without any expensive roaming charges. For the families of low-income or elder citizens, who may not afford private internet, this access will prove to be the best for them, especially for staying connected to government services, health portals, and more.
Future outlook
This initiative strongly depicting the increasing digital inclusion and smart city development. the Punjab government is doing a great work by providing free internet at public places, it is not done only for improving daily life for its citizens but also creating a whole framework for a more connected, tech-savvy, and inclusive future.
Whether you’re studying in Sialkot or running a shop in Okara, the digital world is now just a click away—and that’s a step forward for everyone.