By Abdul Ghani

The government has significantly accelerated efforts to extend digital connectivity to over 3,000 remote and underserved areas of Balochistan under the Universal Service Fund (USF), with 31 access projects launched to date.

According to a document available with Wealth Pakistan, the USF’s 3G/4G access programme has made substantial progress since its inception. Of the 31 projects awarded, 29 have already been completed, while two remain under implementation.

The projects collectively cover 3,793 mauzas (villages) across key districts, including Sibi, Zhob, Kalat, Chagai, Gwadar, Khuzdar, Pishin, Killa Saifullah, Mastung, Jaffarabad, Dera Bugti, Bolan, and Panjgur.

The initiative has extended mobile broadband access to 4.3 million people, marking a major step toward digital inclusion in one of Pakistan’s least connected regions.

Among the completed projects, the Sibi lot alone served over 423,000 people across 258 mauzas, while the Zhob lot covered more than 363,000 individuals. Similarly, the Bolan project reached approximately 428,954 people, and the Mastung lot connected over 138,945 residents.

The recent progress shows continued expansion, with several projects completed as late as 2023 and 2025, reflecting sustained government focus.

According to officials, the USF programme is aimed at ensuring equitable access to telecom services, particularly in geographically challenging and economically disadvantaged areas.

By enabling 3G/4G connectivity, the initiative is expected to boost economic activity, improve access to education and healthcare, and support digital governance in remote parts of Balochistan.

The expansion aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to enhance nationwide digital infrastructure and reduce connectivity gaps between the urban and rural populations.

Credit: INP-WealthPk