The Ministry of IT and Telecommunication has officially announced that Pakistan will be connected to three new submarine cables in the coming 12 to 18 months. This significant development was shared during the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on IT meeting, chaired by Syed Aminul Haque. Officials highlighted that agreements have already been finalized, ensuring the cables will directly link Pakistan with Europe through advanced routes.
Strengthening Internet Infrastructure Nationwide
The planned submarine cables are intended to strengthen Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, which has long been reliant on limited existing routes. These new connections will provide a more stable and diverse pathway for data traffic. By reducing dependence on vulnerable routes, the project aims to minimize disruptions, enhance connectivity speeds, and ensure reliable internet access for users across the nation, supporting both individuals and businesses in an increasingly digital environment.
Direct Link with Europe to Enhance Reliability
One of the most notable features of the new submarine cables is the direct connection they will establish between Pakistan and Europe. Currently, much of the country’s international internet traffic relies on shared routes that can easily be disrupted. By enabling direct connectivity, the new cables will help improve stability, reduce latency, and ensure smoother access to global networks, benefiting everyday users and the broader technology-driven economy.
Also Read: NA Panel Grills IT Ministry over Submarine Cable Cuts, Internet Slowdown
Government’s Commitment to Digital Growth
IT Secretary Zarrar Hasham Khan stressed that these projects will substantially improve Pakistan’s bandwidth capacity. He underlined that the government is committed to ensuring a robust digital infrastructure capable of meeting rising demands. By investing in submarine cables, the Ministry aims to enable smoother internet-based services, ranging from education and telehealth to e-commerce and cloud applications, ensuring Pakistan’s digital future is secure and globally competitive.
Addressing Ongoing Internet Issues
During the meeting, committee member Sadiq Memon raised questions about the current internet service disruptions faced by users. In response, ministry officials reassured the committee that the addition of new submarine cables would resolve these long-standing issues. They explained that greater bandwidth and redundancy will prevent frequent outages. With these steps, Pakistan’s overall connectivity will become more resilient, safeguarding against external disruptions such as cable cuts in other regions.
A Step Toward Long-Term Connectivity Goals
The upcoming submarine cable projects mark a critical step toward Pakistan’s long-term connectivity goals. By investing in reliable international internet links, the government is laying the foundation for stronger economic growth, digital transformation, and enhanced global communication. Once operational, these cables will not only improve daily internet usage but also support innovation, attract technology investments, and reinforce Pakistan’s position as a digitally connected country in the region.
