The Punjab digital transformation initiative received a major boost on Wednesday after the World Bank approved $70 million in financing for the Connected Punjab Program. The project aims to expand broadband access, improve digital public services, and strengthen digital infrastructure across the province by 2031.
According to the World Bank, the Connected Punjab Program will increase broadband connectivity and expand access to digital services for millions of residents. The project targets connecting an additional 2.1 million people to broadband internet by 2031, while increasing fixed broadband coverage from 7.8 million to 9.9 million people across Punjab.
The program also seeks to attract around $50 million in private investment for digital infrastructure. In addition, authorities aim to reduce the approval period for Right of Way (RoW) permits from 90 days to 21 days, helping accelerate the deployment of broadband networks and digital infrastructure projects.
The Punjab digital transformation plan includes improving access to digital government services for 28.9 million people by 2031. The World Bank said the project will also support the development of modern digital infrastructure capable of delivering artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled public services across the province.
Another key component of the initiative focuses on promoting digital payments and financial inclusion. The project includes the introduction of a Digital Invoice Management System and measures to encourage cashless transactions, with a target of actively connecting 350,000 people to digital payment systems by 2031.
The World Bank also highlighted women’s digital inclusion as a priority. Under the program, the share of women accessing digital public services is expected to increase from 19% to 30%, helping improve equal access to government services through digital platforms.
The Punjab digital transformation project aligns with Pakistan’s national digital and artificial intelligence vision. While the World Bank will provide $70 million in financing, the Punjab government will contribute $208 million as counterpart funding, bringing the total value of the Connected Punjab Program to $278 million.
