In a significant step to expand digital access in rural Pakistan, the Universal Service Fund (USF) has signed contracts worth Rs 3.94 billion to bring high-speed optical fiber and mobile broadband to the districts of Sanghar and Badin in Sindh. The projects, unveiled in a ceremony attended by provincial and federal leaders, aim to connect over 1.8 million residents while supporting the government’s “Digital Pakistan” vision.
The Sanghar project involves laying 415 kilometers of optical fiber cable, linking 1.38 million people at a cost of Rs 3.27 billion. Meanwhile, the Badin initiative will provide high-speed mobile broadband to 432,666 residents in 144 previously unserved Mauzas, with an investment of Rs 668.47 million.
Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring digital services reach every corner of the country. She noted that these projects will not only improve connectivity but also prepare the ground for upcoming 5G services and support initiatives in artificial intelligence, such as the ongoing “Indus AI Week.”
Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori praised the ministry’s efforts in bridging the digital divide, particularly in remote areas, and reiterated provincial support for the federal government’s digitalization goals.
Key Highlights from the Ceremony
- Sanghar Optical Fiber Project: CEO USF, Ch. Mudassar Naveed, and CEO DANCOM, Luqman Kamil, signed a contract to lay 415 kilometers of optical fiber, connecting approximately 1.38 million people at a cost of PKR 3.27 billion.
- Badin Broadband Project: CEO USF and Vice President of Jazz, Mudassar Hussain, inked an agreement to bring high-speed mobile broadband to 432,666 residents in 144 previously unserved Mauzas, with an investment of PKR 668.47 million.
- 5G and AI Momentum: The Federal Minister announced that Pakistan is nearing the launch of 5G services next month.
USF Performance and Background
Since its establishment in 2006, USF has executed 128 projects worth Rs 129.21 billion, connecting more than 39 million people nationwide. In Sindh alone, 26 projects totaling Rs 19.05 billion have brought mobile broadband access to nearly 12.84 million people across 4,940 Mauzas. Over the past eight months, USF approved 16 new projects worth Rs 20.54 billion covering 22 districts.
CEO Ch. Mudassar Naveed emphasized that these initiatives reflect the organization’s continued commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering underserved communities. He expressed gratitude to both public and private stakeholders for supporting these ambitious efforts.
