Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced the revival of a significant initiative aimed at providing free Wi-Fi access in public areas across the province of Punjab, Pakistan. Under the management of the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), this project will involve both the refurbishment of existing Wi-Fi infrastructure and the installation of new Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the region.
The primary objective of this initiative is to ensure that individuals have access to free Wi-Fi connectivity in key public spaces such as schools, hospitals, bus stops, and train stations. Additionally, efforts will be made to identify additional locations where Wi-Fi hotspots can be established to further expand internet access to the public.
This initiative marks a continuation of efforts initially undertaken by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government in 2013, which saw the introduction of free Wi-Fi services in cities like Lahore. However, progress on the project was halted during the tenure of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government.
Previously, the responsibility for providing Wi-Fi services rested with the Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL). However, with the revival of the project, the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) will now take on the task of managing and overseeing the provision of free Wi-Fi services in public areas across Punjab.
The reinstatement of this initiative is expected to have a significant impact, enabling individuals to access the internet conveniently in crucial public spaces.
This access to free Wi-Fi will not only facilitate communication and connectivity but also empower individuals by providing them with valuable digital resources and opportunities for information dissemination and access to educational and healthcare services.
The revival of the free Wi-Fi initiative underscores the government’s commitment to promoting digital inclusion and ensuring that the benefits of technology are accessible to all segments of society in Punjab.
