ISLAMABAD, May 07 (ABC): Pakistan’s broadband expansion programme has connected more than 4.27 million people in remote parts of Balochistan through 3G and 4G mobile internet services, according to official documents reviewed by Wealth Pakistan. The initiative is part of the government’s wider effort to improve digital access in underserved regions with limited telecommunications infrastructure.
The projects were implemented under the Universal Service Fund (USF), which finances telecom and internet connectivity projects in areas where commercial investment is limited.
What is the broadband programme in Balochistan?
Telling to Wealth PakistanThe Universal Service Fund’s 3G/4G access programme is designed to extend mobile broadband coverage to geographically remote and economically underserved communities across Pakistan.
In Balochistan, authorities have launched 31 connectivity projects so far. Of these, 29 projects have been completed, while two are still under implementation.
The programme covers 3,793 mauzas, or villages, across districts including Sibi, Zhob, Kalat, Chagai, Gwadar, Khuzdar, Pishin, Killa Saifullah, Mastung, Jaffarabad, Dera Bugti, Bolan, and Panjgur.
Why does the project matter?
Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province by land area, but many of its remote regions have historically faced limited access to digital infrastructure.
Expanding broadband connectivity can improve access to online education, digital health services, banking, government services, and communication networks. Mobile internet access is also viewed as an important tool for economic participation in rural areas.
The initiative forms part of Pakistan’s broader digital infrastructure strategy aimed at reducing connectivity gaps between urban and rural populations.
Which areas have seen major coverage?
Several completed projects have connected large populations across multiple districts.
According to official figures, the Sibi project covered 258 mauzas and served more than 423,000 people. The Zhob project connected over 363,000 residents, while the Bolan project reached approximately 428,954 people.
In Mastung, broadband services were extended to more than 138,945 residents.
Officials say some projects were completed as recently as 2023 and 2025, indicating continued expansion efforts in the province.
Who is affected?
The programme primarily affects residents of remote and underserved communities where internet and mobile coverage were previously limited or unavailable.
Students, small businesses, healthcare providers, and local administrations are among the groups expected to benefit from improved digital access.
Telecom connectivity can also support emergency communication and public service delivery in geographically isolated areas.
What happens next?
Two broadband access projects in Balochistan are still under implementation.
Authorities have not announced new completion dates, but the ongoing work reflects continued government investment in telecom infrastructure development across remote regions of Pakistan.
