Islamabad to Become Pakistan’s First Smart City: Major Technological Upgrades Planned for Citizen’s Benefit
In a landmark decision that marks a new chapter in Pakistan’s digital transformation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the launch of Pakistan’s first pilot Smart City project in Islamabad. The ambitious initiative aims to modernize the capital using cutting-edge technology and advanced infrastructure, making it a model for other regions across the country.
This transformative plan was unveiled by Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, during a recent press briefing. She emphasized that the project will usher in a new era of innovation, convenience, and efficiency for citizens while also setting a foundation for a long-term digital revolution in Pakistan.
Key Features of the Islamabad Smart City Project
1. Citywide Fiber Optic Network Integration
Within the next 6 to 8 months, all public schools, Basic Health Units (BHUs), and police stations across Islamabad will be connected to a high-speed fiber optic network. This integration aims to enable real-time communication, data management, and operational efficiency within these key sectors.
- Education institutions will gain access to faster internet and digital tools.
- Healthcare units will benefit from efficient data systems and online consultations.
- Police departments will experience improved surveillance and response times.
2. Free Public Wi-Fi in Metro Stations and Parks
As part of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, citizens will soon enjoy free Wi-Fi services at:
- Metro Bus stations
- Public spaces
- Recreational parks
This move is expected to help bridge the digital divide, especially for students, commuters, and low-income communities who rely on connectivity for education, work, and communication.
Education: Bringing Quality Learning Through EdTech
Shaza Fatima revealed that the Ministry of Education is fully onboard with the Smart City initiative. Special focus is being placed on EdTech (Education Technology) to ensure quality education reaches children even in the most remote areas of the country.
Under the Prime Minister’s directive:
- A special committee has been formed to incorporate IT and digital literacy into school curricula.
- Interactive learning tools, smart boards, online classes, and AI-based assessments are planned.
- This is part of the government’s broader goal that no child in Islamabad—and eventually across Pakistan—is left behind in education.
Massive Upskilling Campaign for IT Youth Workforce
One of the standout components of the Smart City project is the government’s aggressive push to build a globally competitive IT workforce. The target: training 500,000 youth in advanced IT skills.
- 200,000 students will be trained through Google-certified programs
- 300,000 students will receive training in collaboration with Huawei
- 200,000 will be enrolled in Microsoft-powered courses
These courses will focus on areas such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI, data science, software development, and digital marketing, creating a strong foundation for freelancing, startups, and employment in global tech markets.
Smart Healthcare: Digital Records and Telemedicine
Islamabad’s Smart City plan includes a revolutionary upgrade in healthcare delivery through digital integration.
- The ‘One Patient, One ID’ program is under development. This system will maintain comprehensive digital records for each patient, allowing doctors to access patient history instantly, from any connected facility.
- All BHUs will be integrated with telemedicine services, connecting rural patients with top urban doctors via internet consultations.
- This will save time, reduce travel for patients, and enable timely medical intervention.
Vision for Expansion Across Pakistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed a clear vision: Islamabad is only the beginning.
- The same smart city model will be replicated in regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, and other underdeveloped districts, with adjustments based on regional needs.
- The government believes this strategy will not only modernize governance but also elevate the living standards of citizens through access to digital resources.
Conclusion: Laying the Foundation for a Digital Pakistan
According to Shaza Fatima, the core objective behind this Smart City transformation is to prepare Pakistan’s youth for the global IT revolution, create economic opportunities, and deliver citizen-centric services powered by digital solutions.
This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader goals of:
- Strengthening e-governance
- Enhancing digital inclusion
- Promoting technological innovation
Islamabad’s Smart City journey is a significant step towards realizing the vision of a Digital Pakistan, where technology is not a luxury but a fundamental right for every citizen.
