Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi inaugurated the 'Open Wi-Fi' project on Friday, aiming to provide free internet access at government universities, colleges, and key public places across the province. The first phase will cover Peshawar, including government hospitals, public transport hubs, and all public universities and colleges, to enhance digital connectivity and public internet access.
Expansion Plans and Digital Governance
Afridi announced that the project would be expanded to Abbottabad, Mardan, Swat, and Kohat in the next phase. He highlighted that the KP government has achieved 70 to 80 percent progress toward digital governance and is working to make all government services fully paperless. The chief minister emphasized that creating employment and economic opportunities for young people remains a key responsibility, noting the increasing participation of youth in e-commerce as an encouraging sign for the province's economy.
Criticism of Internet Slowdowns
Afridi criticized the deliberate slowing of internet speeds to restrict social media, stating that such measures negatively affect young people and online businesses. He accused the federal government of failing to address the needs of the youth, pointing out that merged districts still lack basic mobile services, let alone internet connectivity. He reaffirmed his government's commitment to public welfare, expressing hope that the 2026-27 fiscal year would bring peace, development, and prosperity to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
