KP Open WiFi Launched to Expand Free Internet Access Across Province

KP Open WiFi Launched to Expand Free Internet Access Across Province

The KP Open WiFi initiative has officially been launched by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, marking a major step towards improving digital connectivity and expanding access to online public services. The first phase of the programme will provide free internet services at selected public locations in Peshawar, with plans to gradually extend coverage to other divisional headquarters, universities and colleges across the province.

Speaking at the launch ceremony in Peshawar on Friday, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi described the initiative as an important part of the provincial government’s digital transformation strategy aimed at strengthening digital governance and improving access to technology for citizens.

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KP Open WiFi Begins in Peshawar

The inaugural ceremony was held at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar, where the chief minister announced that free WiFi services are now being introduced at key public facilities.

According to an official statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office, the initial rollout covers major government hospitals and public transport terminals in the provincial capital.

The government says the project is intended to improve digital accessibility for residents while making online public services easier to access.

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Expansion Planned Across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

The provincial government plans to extend KP Open WiFi beyond Peshawar during the next phases of implementation.

According to the chief minister, the initiative will gradually reach divisional headquarters, including:

• Abbottabad
• Dera Ismail Khan
• Mardan
• Swat
• Kohat
• Bannu

The broader expansion is expected to improve internet availability for citizens living outside the provincial capital.

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Universities and Colleges to Receive Free WiFi

One of the major announcements made during the ceremony was the government’s plan to introduce free WiFi services at public universities and colleges throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The chief minister said improving digital infrastructure in educational institutions would help students pursue learning, research, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities in an increasingly technology-driven environment.

The initiative is also expected to support young people who rely on internet connectivity for online education and professional development.

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Government Highlights Digital Transformation Efforts

During his address, the chief minister said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has made significant progress in digitising government operations.

He stated that approximately 70 to 80 percent of government processes have already moved towards digital systems, while work continues to shift public service delivery to a paperless model.

According to the chief minister, the provincial government aims to create an environment that encourages innovation, digital skills development and broader participation in the digital economy.

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Concerns Raised Over Internet Restrictions

During the event, the chief minister also expressed concern over internet availability and connection speeds across Pakistan.

He said internet slowdowns and service suspensions used to limit access to social media were regrettable and argued that such disruptions have affected students, freelancers, entrepreneurs and digital businesses that depend on stable internet connections.

He further alleged that internet services have frequently been slowed or suspended in efforts to counter the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). These remarks reflect the chief minister’s political position and were presented during his speech.

The chief minister said reliable, affordable and uninterrupted internet access is essential for Pakistan’s digital economy and the country’s growing technology workforce.

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Economic Challenges Also Highlighted

The chief minister also discussed broader economic issues affecting the province.

He noted that cross-border trade with Afghanistan has historically supported many local communities but said prolonged border closures have reduced commercial activity in affected areas.

He added that unemployment, inflation and wider economic pressures continue to impact citizens and stressed the importance of using public resources efficiently and transparently.

According to the chief minister, the provincial government intends to continue implementing reforms designed to make public services more accessible through technology.

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Project Cost and Implementation Details

Officials attending the ceremony shared additional information about the project.

They said the approved PC-I for KP Open WiFi carries a total cost of Rs320 million, while approximately Rs90 million has already been spent on deploying the initial infrastructure.

According to officials, the first phase includes:

• 19 public locations
• Peshawar, Abbottabad and Dera Ismail Khan
• 119 WiFi access points

The selected locations include government hospitals, public parks and transport terminals where visitors will be able to access free internet services.

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Why KP Open WiFi Matters

Expanding internet access has become an important part of public service delivery as governments increasingly move services online.

Free public WiFi can help students access educational resources, enable job seekers to search for employment opportunities, support freelancers and entrepreneurs, and improve citizens’ access to digital government services.

The initiative also aligns with the provincial government’s broader goal of digitising administrative processes and reducing reliance on paper-based systems.

If implemented as planned, KP Open WiFi could significantly improve internet accessibility in public spaces across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while supporting education, healthcare and digital inclusion.