The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved $70 million in financing for the Connected Punjab Programme (CPP), aimed at expanding broadband internet access, improving digital public services and promoting cashless transactions across the province.
According to a World Bank statement, the programme complements Pakistan’s broader national digital transformation agenda. While the federal government’s Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP) is developing national digital infrastructure, the Connected Punjab Programme will help extend those benefits to citizens and businesses throughout Punjab.
World Bank Country Director for Pakistan Bolormaa Amgaabazar said improved digital connectivity would create new opportunities for people, particularly women and young people, while enhancing access to public services.
The programme also seeks to remove regulatory and cost barriers to private investment in broadband infrastructure, especially in underserved urban areas. By June 2031, it aims to reduce Right-of-Way permit processing times from 90 days to 21 days, expand fixed broadband coverage from 7.8 million to 9.9 million people, bring 2.1 million additional users online, and attract at least $50 million in private investment in digital infrastructure.