Punjab is set to accelerate its digital transformation after securing a $70 million loan from the World Bank for the Connected Punjab Program. The initiative aims to expand broadband access, improve digital public services, and encourage the adoption of cashless payment systems across the province.
The funding is expected to strengthen digital infrastructure while making government services more accessible to millions of residents. At the same time, the program seeks to attract private investment and remove barriers that have slowed internet expansion in many areas.
World Bank Approves Funding for Connected Punjab Program
The World Bank has approved a $70 million loan to support Punjab’s Connected Punjab Program. The financing will be provided through the International Development Association (IDA).
The project forms part of a broader digital development initiative valued at $278 million. Meanwhile, the Punjab government will contribute $208 million toward the overall program.
The initiative focuses on improving internet connectivity, modernizing public services, and creating a stronger digital ecosystem across the province.
Expanding Broadband Access Across Punjab
A major objective of the program is to improve broadband coverage for residents throughout Punjab.
Currently, various regulatory requirements can delay internet infrastructure projects. Therefore, the program seeks to simplify these procedures and speed up approvals.
One key target involves reducing the average Right of Way permit processing period from 90 days to just 21 days. As a result, telecommunications providers may be able to expand their networks more efficiently.
The program aims to increase fixed broadband coverage from 7.8 million people to 9.9 million people by June 2031. Moreover, authorities expect the initiative to attract at least $50 million in private investment for digital infrastructure projects.
Improving Digital Government Services
In addition to expanding connectivity, the Connected Punjab Program will strengthen the province’s digital public services.
The project will support government computing systems and help departments modernize their digital operations. Furthermore, it will enable provincial institutions to introduce AI-enabled public services designed to improve efficiency and service delivery.
By 2031, the program aims to provide enhanced digital public services to 28.9 million people across Punjab.
Officials also plan to increase digital inclusion, particularly among women. Currently, women account for 19 percent of users accessing digital government services. However, the program aims to raise that figure to 30 percent by 2031.
Focus on Cashless and Digital Payments
Another important component of the initiative involves promoting digital payments throughout the province.
Punjab plans to introduce a Digital Invoice Management System to support secure and efficient financial transactions. In addition, authorities intend to establish interoperable payment infrastructure that allows different payment platforms to work together seamlessly.
These measures are expected to encourage greater adoption of cashless transactions among businesses and consumers.
By June 2031, the province aims to reach 350,000 active users of digital payment systems.
Supporting Punjab’s Digital Economy
The Connected Punjab Program is designed to complement the federal government’s Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP).
Together, the two initiatives aim to strengthen Pakistan’s digital public infrastructure while improving connectivity and access to online services.
Moreover, the projects seek to create a more competitive digital economy by encouraging innovation, investment, and technology-driven growth.
As digital services become increasingly important, improved infrastructure could help businesses, government departments, and citizens benefit from faster and more reliable digital access.
A Step Toward a More Connected Future
The approval of the $70 million World Bank loan marks an important milestone for Punjab’s digital development plans. Through expanded broadband coverage, modernized public services, and wider adoption of digital payments, the Connected Punjab Program aims to improve how people access information, government services, and financial systems.
If the program achieves its targets, millions of residents could benefit from better connectivity and more efficient digital services by 2031, helping support Punjab’s broader digital transformation goals.
