In a bold step toward digital inclusion, Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has expanded the Free Wi-Fi Scheme across 22 major cities in August 2025. This development brings free, high-speed internet access to public areas like educational institutions, hospitals, parks, and transport terminals. To promote digital literacy and equal access to online resources, this program reflects the government’s serious commitment to making Punjab a modern, connected province.
What Is the Free Wi-Fi Scheme?
The CM Punjab Free Wi-Fi Scheme provides open access to internet services at key public locations. Citizens can connect their devices to designated networks using a simple and secure OTP (One-Time Password) system linked to their mobile numbers. It’s entirely free and requires no registration or fees.
This service especially benefits students, freelancers, job seekers, and the general public who rely on the internet for work, education, and communication.
Cities Now Covered Under the Scheme
As of August 2025, the service is now active in the following 22 cities:
- Lahore
- Rawalpindi
- Multan
- Faisalabad
- Gujranwala
- Bahawalpur
- Sialkot
- Sargodha
- Sheikhupura
- Okara
- Rahim Yar Khan
- Sahiwal
- Gujarat
- Kasur
- Dera Ghazi Khan
- Chiniot
- Jhelum
- Muzaffargarh
- Khanewal
- Mianwali
- Vehari
- Attock
These cities now enjoy free Wi-Fi in hundreds of public spots. Lahore, being the largest city, leads with over 430 Wi-Fi hotspots operational in parks, libraries, bus stands, hospitals, and shopping areas.
How to Use the Service
Connecting to the internet is simple and secure. Here’s how:
- Open Wi-Fi settings on your device.
- Select the network called “Punjab Free WiFi.”
- Enter your mobile number to receive a one-time password (OTP).
- Input the OTP and get instant access to free internet.
This process ensures fair and secure usage while preventing misuse.
Benefits of the Free Internet Program
1. Education Access for All
Students from low-income families can now attend online classes, download study material, and prepare for exams using free public internet. Colleges and universities in these cities have reported increased digital participation due to this service.
2. Support for Freelancers
Freelancers and remote workers who depend on a stable internet connection now have access to reliable Wi-Fi at co-working spaces and public locations. This helps boost productivity without extra internet costs.
3. Promotes Digital Governance
Citizens can access government portals to check bills, apply for jobs, or register complaints easily. The scheme bridges the digital divide and supports transparency.
4. Healthcare & Emergency Access
At hospitals and public health centers, patients can use the internet to check online reports, book appointments, and communicate with their families.
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Performance Stats and Technology
The service utilizes the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, providing fast speeds and enhanced connection stability. In Lahore alone, the system recorded:
- 7.7 million users
- Over 111 terabytes of data usage
- 98.7% uptime
The entire network across Punjab has now crossed 900 terabytes of usage, with 37+ million connections made since launch.
Security and Monitoring
To ensure responsible use, the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) actively monitors the network. Access is encrypted, and connections are logged to avoid illegal activity. Daily reports are reviewed to identify misuse or connection failures.
Challenges and Solutions
Some early challenges include:
- Overloading in peak hours
- Connectivity drops in remote zones
- Abuse of free data
However, CM Maryam Nawaz has instructed local authorities to improve load balancing, extend hotspots in smaller towns, and maintain service quality through constant upgrades.
What’s Next for the Scheme?
The government plans to expand the network further to smaller tehsils and rural districts by early 2026. In addition, apps are being developed to allow users to locate the nearest hotspot and submit feedback directly. This is expected to increase engagement and system efficiency.
Conclusion
The Punjab Free Wi-Fi Scheme is a landmark step toward bridging the digital divide in Pakistan. With 22 major cities now covered, the project empowers students, workers, and everyday citizens by giving them access to essential online tools. CM Maryam Nawaz’s initiative not only addresses digital inequality but also lays the groundwork for a smarter, more connected society.
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