ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s passport has recorded a significant improvement in global rankings, now featuring among the world’s top 100 passports.
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, while addressing at the floor of the National Assembly, shared the development during the Question Hour. He cited the Henley Passport Index 2025, which shows that the Pakistani passport has advanced by 20 positions.
He said Pakistan has signed visa exemption agreements with 50 countries for holders of diplomatic and official passports, adding that several initiatives have been undertaken to further enhance the ranking of the Pakistani passport.
Responding to a question, Dr. Chaudhry said all fake computerized national identity cards and passports have been cancelled.
During the session, the minister also announced that free public internet access will be available at 30 locations across Islamabad by the end of next month.
He said the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the National Telecommunication Authority (NTA) have jointly identified 30 public spots where citizens will enjoy free Wi-Fi services. The facility will cover 15 metro bus stations as well as major commercial centers in sectors F-6 and F-7.
Other designated locations include CDA Hospital, Japanese Park, Lake View Park, Daman-e-Koh, Fatima Jinnah Park, and the Sunday Bazaars in G-6 and H-9 sectors.
In response to another question, Dr. Chaudhry said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formed a committee under the Interior Ministry to meet Islamabad’s water requirements for the next 50 years.
He said the plan includes integrating Chirah or Shahdara Dam into the system, along with measures to increase water supply from Ghazi Barotha and Khanpur Dams to ensure sustainable water availability for the twin cities.
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Addressing a calling-attention notice, the minister said solid waste from residential areas of Islamabad Capital Territory is being collected and disposed of under a regulated system to maintain cleanliness across the city.
