Punjab Expands Free Wi-Fi to 22 Districts in Major Digital Push
LAHORE – In a major step towards digital transformation, the Punjab government has significantly expanded its free Wi-Fi service, now covering 22 districts and over 700 key public locations across the province.
The expansion was carried out under the special directives of the Chief Minister of Punjab, demonstrating a strong commitment to bridging the digital divide and improving internet accessibility for all citizens.
According to a spokesperson from the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA), the number of Wi-Fi hotspots in Lahore alone has increased from 230 to 430, vastly improving access in urban areas.
The service, which was previously limited to 11 districts, is now operational in a wide range of locations including Lahore, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Gujrat, Jhelum, Attock, Hasan Abdal, Sahiwal, Okara, and Murree — with a total of 710 hotspots now live.
Tech Upgrade: Now Powered by Wi-Fi 6
In a major technological upgrade, the entire network has been transitioned to Wi-Fi 6 — the latest and most advanced wireless standard. This means faster internet speeds, better device handling in crowded areas, and more reliable connections for users.
Public Impact and Usage Stats
The free public Wi-Fi initiative has already made a tangible impact. Over 37.22 million users have utilized the service to date, consuming more than 905 terabytes (TB) of data. For many, it has become a vital tool for accessing online services, especially in areas where mobile data or broadband is limited.
The PSCA emphasized that while the service is designed to enhance public access and support emergency needs, it is not intended for streaming or entertainment use. The focus remains on promoting productivity, connectivity, and digital inclusion.
Looking Ahead: More Districts to Join
Reaffirming the government’s vision for a Digital Punjab, the Chief Minister stated that efforts are already underway to extend the free Wi-Fi service to even more areas in the coming months.
