The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has significantly expanded its free public Wi-Fi initiative, doubling the number of hotspots and extending the service to more districts across the province. This bold step aims to improve digital accessibility, especially in urban and semi-urban regions, making Punjab a leader in public internet infrastructure in Pakistan.
According to PSCA officials, the number of free Wi-Fi access points in Lahore has increased from 230 to 430, offering residents faster and more reliable internet connectivity in public spaces. Furthermore, the network coverage has now extended from 11 to 22 districts, including:
- Kasur
- Nankana Sahib
- Sheikhupura
- Sialkot
- Gujrat
- Jhelum
- Attock
- Hasan Abdal
- Sahiwal
- Okara
- Murree
This expansion follows a strategic series of recent upgrades focused on enhancing digital connectivity in underserved areas. Just last week, Gujrat city became the latest addition to the growing list of cities benefiting from free public Wi-Fi, reflecting the provincial government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide.
Massive Public Engagement and Data Consumption
The PSCA reports that more than 37.22 million users have accessed the public Wi-Fi network so far. These users have collectively consumed over 905 terabytes of data, highlighting the increasing reliance on free internet services for communication, education, business, and entertainment.
Such figures not only indicate the popularity of the service but also emphasize the urgent need for accessible and inclusive internet infrastructure across Pakistan. Whether for students accessing online classes or professionals managing remote work, the demand for high-speed internet in public spaces has grown exponentially.
Infrastructure Upgrade to Wi-Fi 6
To meet the growing demand and ensure seamless user experiences, the PSCA has begun upgrading its entire Wi-Fi infrastructure to Wi-Fi 6 technology—the latest standard in wireless internet connectivity.
The move to Wi-Fi 6 brings numerous advantages, including:
- Faster internet speeds
- Lower latency
- Increased bandwidth
- Improved performance in crowded environments
This upgrade will particularly benefit users in high-density areas, such as markets, parks, transit hubs, and educational institutions, where connectivity is typically challenged by heavy traffic. With Wi-Fi 6, the PSCA aims to deliver stable and high-performance internet access even during peak usage hours.
Promoting Digital Inclusion and Smart City Innovation
The expansion of Punjab’s free Wi-Fi network is more than just a technology upgrade—it’s a strategic step toward building smart cities and promoting digital inclusion across the province.
By offering free, fast, and secure internet access, the initiative is removing barriers to entry for low-income communities and enhancing opportunities for education, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. It also aligns with the broader goals of the Punjab government to transform urban centers into digitally empowered cities.
PSCA officials emphasized that the Wi-Fi expansion is part of a larger digital ecosystem, which includes smart traffic management, security surveillance, emergency response systems, and e-governance tools—all under the umbrella of the Safe Cities Project.
Future Prospects and Vision
With the successful deployment of public Wi-Fi in 22 districts and ongoing technological upgrades, the PSCA plans to extend the service to additional districts in the coming months. The authority is also working on AI-driven analytics, cybersecurity enhancements, and real-time monitoring systems to ensure user safety and service reliability.
This transformation places Punjab at the forefront of digital progress in Pakistan, setting an example for other provinces to follow. As the demand for online services continues to grow, such initiatives will play a crucial role in building a resilient digital infrastructure and empowering citizens.
The Punjab Safe Cities Authority’s public Wi-Fi expansion is a game-changer for digital access in Pakistan. By doubling the number of hotspots and upgrading to Wi-Fi 6 technology, the PSCA is not just enhancing internet services but also paving the way for a smarter, more connected, and inclusive future for millions of residents across Punjab.
