In a major step toward digital inclusion, the Government of Pakistan has announced the expansion of 4G services and fiber optic infrastructure to some of the country’s most remote and underserved regions. The initiative, aimed at bridging the digital divide, will be executed through seven major projects approved by the Universal Service Fund (USF) Board.
Chaired by IT Secretary Zarar Khan, the USF Board approved the projects with a total investment of Rs7.49 billion. The approved initiatives include five broadband service rollouts and two fiber optic deployments, covering 940 kilometers of fiber optic cable. These projects will connect 347 villages and 113 towns or union councils across 12 districts in Pakistan.
According to USF estimates, the broadband and fiber expansion will directly benefit around 2.8 million residents through fiber connectivity and an additional 965,000 individuals via improved broadband access.
Secretary Zarar Khan highlighted that under the guidance of Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the government is fast-tracking efforts to empower youth and women in rural communities, allowing them to enter the freelancing and digital entrepreneurship ecosystem. So far, USF has facilitated internet access for more than 37 million people across the country.
USF CEO Mudassar Naveed provided further insights, revealing that Rs3.27 billion will be allocated to deploy 415 km of fiber optic cable in Sanghar, while Rs2.38 billion will fund 525 km of cable in Jhang and surrounding areas.
In addition to fiber infrastructure, 4G services will be extended to rural areas in Attock, Khushab, Sargodha, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Hafizabad, Sheikhupura, Chiniot, Badin, and Abbottabad — connecting thousands of previously unserved residents.
The USF Board of Directors commended the organization’s role in accelerating Pakistan’s IT sector growth, enabling digital access, and enhancing the country’s digital exports and remote work capabilities.
This nationwide push toward digital expansion reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to a connected and inclusive digital economy.
