ISLAMABAD, May 6 (ABC): The government has expanded digital connectivity to 3,793 remote areas of Balochistan under the Universal Service Fund’s (USF) 3G/4G access programme, benefiting more than 4.27 million people across the province.
According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, 31 projects have so far been launched in Balochistan under the programme. Of these, 29 projects have been completed, while two are still under implementation.
The projects cover 3,793 mauzas (villages) in several districts, including Sibi, Zhob, Kalat, Chagai, Gwadar, Khuzdar, Pishin, Killa Saifullah, Mastung, Jaffarabad, Dera Bugti, Bolan, and Panjgur.
Major districts receive broadband coverage
Among the completed projects, the Sibi lot provided broadband services to more than 423,000 people across 258 mauzas. The Zhob lot connected over 363,000 individuals in remote areas.
Similarly, the Bolan project extended connectivity to around 428,954 people, while the Mastung lot covered more than 138,945 residents.
The documents show that several projects were completed in recent years, including 2023 and 2025, indicating continued progress in expanding telecom infrastructure in underserved areas of the province.
Focus on remote and underserved areas
The USF programme aims to improve telecom access in regions where commercial operators face geographical and financial challenges.
The expansion of 3G/4G services is expected to improve communication facilities and support access to online education, healthcare, digital services, and business activities in remote districts.
Officials believe better internet connectivity can help reduce the digital gap between urban and rural populations and support broader economic and social development in Balochistan.
The initiative also forms part of Pakistan’s wider efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure and improve nationwide broadband penetration.
