The Ministry of IT has identified multiple factors causing slow internet speeds in Pakistan. Limited spectrum availability, delayed Fiber to the Home (FTTH) deployment, and Right of Way (RoW) issues are major hurdles. Additionally, frequent power outages, low fiber-to-tower ratios, and theft incidents worsen connectivity. The ministry clarified that no single issue is solely responsible; instead, a combination of challenges needs addressing.
Impact of VPN Usage on Internet Speeds
Excessive VPN usage degrades internet performance by routing traffic through international networks instead of local CDNs and Internet Exchange Points (IXPs). This increases latency, slowing down the user experience. While VPNs provide privacy, their overuse strains bandwidth, affecting overall connectivity. The government is working on solutions to optimize local traffic routing and reduce dependence on foreign networks for better speed and reliability.
Submarine Cable Disruptions & Current Status
Recent interruptions in international submarine cables have impacted internet and social media performance. However, no major connectivity issues are currently reported. Submarine cable utilization has increased to 10 Tbps, up from 8 Tbps last year. To enhance redundancy, PTA licensees are expanding submarine cable routes, ensuring stable and high-speed internet access for users across Pakistan.
New Spectrum Auction to Boost Internet Speeds
The government is preparing to release 597 MHz of additional spectrum, over 200% of the existing allocation. This spectrum, available in multiple bands, will be auctioned soon to improve mobile broadband speed, capacity, and quality. Increased spectrum availability will support 4G expansion and future 5G deployment, ensuring faster and more reliable internet nationwide.
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Infrastructure Upgrades for Better Connectivity
Significant infrastructure improvements have been made, including installing 12,000 new sites in six years and upgrading 2G sites to 4G. Advanced technologies like sector splitting, massive MIMO, VoWiFi, and VoLTE have been introduced. Additionally, 3G is being phased out to optimize spectrum use, while active infrastructure sharing enhances efficiency. These upgrades aim to deliver seamless connectivity.
Aggressive Rollout Obligations by PTA
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has enforced strict rollout obligations in new and renewed licenses. Telecom operators must cover an additional 3% population per province annually, requiring 445 new sites yearly. The National Roaming Facility along the Makran Coastal Highway and remote areas ensures connectivity in underserved regions, bridging the digital divide.
Future-Proofing with 5G Spectrum Reserve
The government has reserved additional spectrum for the upcoming 5G technologies. This forward-looking approach ensures Pakistan remains competitive in the digital era. Nationwide analysis of Operational Support Systems (OSS) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) will further optimize network performance, preparing the country for next-generation internet services.
New Submarine Cables for Enhanced Redundancy
Five new submarine cables, Africa-1, 2Africa, Sea-Me-We 6, Makran Gulf Gateway-1, and PEACE, are being deployed. These cables will improve internet quality, reduce latency, and provide redundancy against disruptions. By diversifying connectivity routes, Pakistan ensures stable and high-speed internet access even during international cable failures.
Conclusion: A Comprehensive Strategy for Faster Internet
The government’s multi-pronged strategy addresses spectrum limitations, infrastructure gaps, and international connectivity challenges. With new spectrum auctions, submarine cable expansions, and aggressive infrastructure upgrades, Pakistan is set to significantly improve internet speed and reliability. These efforts will enhance digital inclusion, support economic growth, and prepare the nation for future technological advancements.
