Closure of free WiFi project in Pakistan’s Punjab

After experiencing major annual losses, Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government has decided to shut down the WiFi project in Pakistan’s Punjab province including its capital Lahore. The project was launched by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government in 2017.

The project was expected to cost Rs 195 million yearly, affecting the treasury.

The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) had been providing

From past many years, free internet service has been provided at public places by the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB). The project was initiated to facilitate over 200 WiFi hotspots in Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi.

Due to failure of payment to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), the project got suspended in January 2019. But after the public reacted adversely the services were resumed as it affected students and citizens of the area.

The project was removed last year. PITB officials said proposals for provision of sustainable WiFi facility is being considered by the board along with the Punjab government.