LAHORE

The Punjab government has approved a Rs50 million plan to install firewall systems across 14 public libraries, in a move aimed at strengthening cybersecurity and protecting digital infrastructure from online threats.

Officials said the project is designed to secure library networks, digital archives, and internet-enabled public systems against cyberattacks, unauthorized access, and data breaches as libraries increasingly adopt digital services.

The initiative reflects growing concerns over cybersecurity risks facing public-sector institutions, particularly those offering open internet access and digital learning resources.

Authorities believe the firewall deployment will help create safer digital environments for students, researchers, and citizens using online services at government-run libraries.

The move also aligns with Punjab’s broader push toward digital governance and cyber resilience, as public institutions continue expanding technology-based services and cloud-connected systems.

Analysts say the decision highlights how cybersecurity is becoming a central component of Pakistan’s ongoing digital transformation efforts amid rising global cyber threats.