The Punjab government has decided to expedite the expansion of fibre optic network in Lahore and all other cities of the province. According to details, recommendations have been finalized to eliminate right-of-way fees on fixed-line operators to promote digital connectivity. Approval will be sought from the Punjab cabinet to waive charges for laying optic fiber cables. Waiving right-of-way fees will make high-speed internet services cheaper. It will help reduce the digital divide between urban and rural areas. Investment in fiber-to-the-home projects could be encouraged. The distribution of the optic fibre network will also fullfill dream of digital services, e-governance, and online education. The Punjab Department of Local Government and Community Development recommended waiving charges on laying the fibre optic network. Currently, only 16 percent of towers in Punjab are fiberized and the government has decided to fill the gap, while preparations are underway to connect government offices to a single high-speed digital network. Files and official records will be completely shifted online, and payments of fees, taxes, and fines will be made possible through mobile phones and cards. A target has been set to link at least 15 different sectors to the digital payment system. The project claims to free citizens from repeated visits to offices, delays, and bribery.
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