The World Bank has approved a $70 million loan to support Punjab’s Connected Punjab Program. This important project aims to bring better internet access, improve online government services, and encourage cashless payments across the province. It is part of Punjab’s bigger plan to become more digital and modern.
The money comes from the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank’s fund for poorer countries. The total program cost is $278 million, with the Punjab government contributing $208 million. The project will help reduce problems that slow down internet growth, such as long delays in getting permissions for new lines.
Key targets include increasing fixed broadband users from 7.8 million to 9.9 million people by June 2031. It also aims to attract at least $50 million in private investment for digital infrastructure. The program will make government services faster and smarter by using new technologies like AI. It plans to help 28.9 million people access better digital services and raise the number of women using them from 19% to 30%.
Another focus is on digital payments. Punjab will introduce new systems for online invoices and easy cashless transactions. The goal is to have 350,000 active users of digital payments by 2031. This will make daily business and government work smoother and more transparent.
This loan supports Pakistan’s overall digital economy goals. It will benefit students, businesses, and ordinary citizens by improving connectivity in cities and villages.