World Bank approves $70m for Punjab digital connectivity programme
The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors has approved $70 million in financing for the Connected Punjab Programme (CPP) to help the
An illustrative image related to: World Bank approves $70m for Punjab digital connectivity programme, highlighting key aspects of the story. | Image source: The Express Tribune
World Bank approves $70m for Punjab digital connectivity programme
The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors has approved $70 million in financing for the Connected Punjab Programme (CPP) to help the territory expand broadband internet access, improve digital service delivery and enhance cashless transactions, it emerged on Wednesday.
A World Bank press release issued a day ago stated the programme was designed to operate alongside the country's broader national digital agenda.
The central governing body is investing in national digital general general facilities through the Digital Market Enhancement Scheme (DEEP), while the Connected Punjab Programme builds on those foundations to ensure national platforms, policies and connectivity investments translate into benefits for residents and businesses across the territory.
"Digital connectivity is no longer a luxury, it is the general facilities of opportunity," World Bank Country Director for Pakistan Bolormaa Amgaabazar stated.
"The central governing body has laid out a bold vision for Pakistan's digital future, and Connected Punjab is how that vision reaches the doorsteps of millions of individuals across the territory," she stated, adding that expanding broadband access and strengthening Punjab's digital backbone would open new opportunities for residents, particularly women and young individuals, while improving access to general services.
According to the press release, the programme would address regulatory and cost barriers that limited private sector investment in broadband general facilities, particularly in underserved urban areas. It aimed to reduce average Right-of-Way permitting processing times from 90 days to 21 days, expand fixed broadband reporting from 7.8 million to 9.9 million individuals by June 2031, bring about 2.1 million additional individuals online, and facilitate at least $50 million in private capital investment in digital general facilities.
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