Pakistan actively working to improve internet connectivity through a multifaceted approach that includes development of submarine cable infrastructure and expansion of satellite based internet services. Country currently relies on seven submarine cables which are crucial for supporting its internet capacity. But these cables have been prone to faults leading to disruptions in internet service. To address these issues and enhance overall connectivity Pakistan is investing in new submarine cables and exploring satellite internet options. Arrival of the world's largest submarine cable part of the Africa-2 Cable Project is expected to alleviate persistent internet connectivity issues. This 45000-kilometer global network connects 33 countries through 46 landing stations. New system will be online by the end of next year. AAE-2 utilizes SDM1 technology which h0as a capacity of 180 terabytes per second (tbps). Once operational the cable will provide Pakistan with 24 terabytes of bandwidth doubling the country’s digital bandwidth. Enhanced bandwidth will improve the performance of platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram.
In addition to submarine cables Pakistan is also focusing on expanding satellite-based internet services to bridge the digital divide and provide connectivity to underserved areas. National Space Policy 2024 and Pakistan Space Activities Rules support satellite internet expansion. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority PTA is working on a Single License framework to facilitate the entry of satellite internet providers into the market. Several providers including Starlink are under review. This initiative aims to provide connectivity to remote and underserved areas where laying down terrestrial cables is not feasible. In order to keep up with evolving technology PTA also released updated Quality of Service QoS regulations that set greater thresholds for system availability and upload or download speeds.
These changes demonstrate Pakistan dedication to enhancing its digital infrastructure and guaranteeing its residents dependable internet access. Pakistan hopes to close the digital divide and improve connectivity by integrating satellite-based technologies with undersea cable upgrades to serve its expanding digital economy. Following the activation of new infrastructure projects the government is collaborating closely with telecom firms to guarantee notable enhancements in internet services. It is anticipated that these steps would enhance the overall online experience and offer much needed respite to customers who are experiencing poor internet speeds.
In addition to submarine cables Pakistan is also focusing on expanding satellite-based internet services to bridge the digital divide and provide connectivity to underserved areas. National Space Policy 2024 and Pakistan Space Activities Rules support satellite internet expansion. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority PTA is working on a Single License framework to facilitate the entry of satellite internet providers into the market. Several providers including Starlink are under review. This initiative aims to provide connectivity to remote and underserved areas where laying down terrestrial cables is not feasible. In order to keep up with evolving technology PTA also released updated Quality of Service QoS regulations that set greater thresholds for system availability and upload or download speeds.
These changes demonstrate Pakistan dedication to enhancing its digital infrastructure and guaranteeing its residents dependable internet access. Pakistan hopes to close the digital divide and improve connectivity by integrating satellite-based technologies with undersea cable upgrades to serve its expanding digital economy. Following the activation of new infrastructure projects the government is collaborating closely with telecom firms to guarantee notable enhancements in internet services. It is anticipated that these steps would enhance the overall online experience and offer much needed respite to customers who are experiencing poor internet speeds.
