In a bid to promote connectivity and enhance internet access for citizens, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has inaugurated a pilot project offering free WiFi services at 50 prominent locations across Lahore.
The initiative, approved by the CM herself, aims to provide seamless internet connectivity to the public, marking a significant step towards digital empowerment.
Expressing her commitment to delivering on promises made, CM Maryam Nawaz expressed her satisfaction with the rollout of free WiFi at the designated spots, stating, "Free WiFi started at the following (50 spots) in Lahore. Rest of Lahore is being done too. Alhamdolillah! We promise, we deliver."
The decision to launch the free WiFi pilot project was finalized during a high-level meeting between the Chief Minister and officials from the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) held last month. Media reports indicate that PITB has been tasked with revamping existing infrastructure, including hotspots, to facilitate the seamless provision of internet services.
Under the directive of CM Maryam Nawaz, the PITB has been instructed to prioritize the deployment of free WiFi services in educational institutions, airports, railway stations, and bus stands.
It is anticipated that a total of 516 locations across Lahore will benefit from this initiative, significantly improving internet accessibility for residents.
This initiative marks a significant revival of the complimentary WiFi services initially launched by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government in 2013. However, the services were discontinued by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government due to unpaid bills to internet providers.
Previously managed by the Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), the oversight of the WiFi services has now been transferred to the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), ensuring efficient management and operation.
