The Punjab Safe Cities Authority has expanded its free public Wi-Fi initiative to significantly improve internet access across the province. The move marks a notable step toward digital inclusion, with the service now active in 22 cities, up from the previous 11. In Lahore alone, the number of public Wi-Fi hotspots has nearly doubled, rising from 230 to 430 locations, providing greater coverage and convenience to the city’s residents and visitors.
The latest districts added to the network include Kasur, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Gujrat, Jhelum, Attock, Hasan Abdal, Sahiwal, Okara, and Murree. This expansion aligns with recent efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure, particularly in semi-urban and urban areas where demand for public internet access continues to grow. Gujrat was among the latest cities to be connected to the network, with activation completed last week.
To support this growth and accommodate higher traffic volumes, the authority has upgraded the entire system to Wi-Fi 6. This next-generation wireless technology is designed to deliver faster data speeds, improved stability, and reduced latency, especially in high-density zones where network congestion is a concern. These enhancements are expected to greatly enhance user experience, particularly for students, professionals, and commuters relying on public networks for daily connectivity needs.
Since its inception, the free Wi-Fi initiative has recorded significant public engagement. Over 37.22 million users have accessed the service to date, and cumulative data consumption has crossed 905 terabytes. These figures highlight the rising dependence on public internet services and underline the critical role such initiatives play in narrowing the digital divide.
By expanding free connectivity options, the project aims to enable a more digitally inclusive environment, allowing citizens from various socioeconomic backgrounds to benefit from online services. The initiative is not only helping individuals stay connected but also contributes to broader smart city goals by supporting location-based services, e-governance, and real-time information dissemination in public spaces.
Officials at the PSCA have reiterated their commitment to ensuring robust and secure digital infrastructure that meets the growing needs of the population. With this latest phase of expansion, Punjab’s public Wi-Fi network is set to play an increasingly central role in promoting equitable access to digital services across the province.
