The race to the digital future is on, and Pakistan is gearing up to redefine its connectivity landscape with the declaration of 2025 as the “Year of 5G”. The government has laid out a bold vision, aiming for faster broadband internet, expanded fiber optics, and unparalleled digital access.
Government’s Vision for 5G in 2025
At the National Broadband Network Forum 2024, hosted by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in partnership with Huawei, Director General Licensing Amer Shahzad unveiled transformative plans:
- Broadband Speed: Increase average internet speed from the current 15 Mbps to 50–100 Mbps.
- Fiber-to-the-Site (FTTS) Coverage: Expand FTTS coverage from 20% to 60%.
- Fixed Broadband Penetration: Grow penetration from less than 2% to an ambitious 20% within five years.
- 5G Spectrum Auction: Scheduled for April 2025, positioning Pakistan among global telecom leaders.
The Backbone of 5G: Optical Fiber Cable (OFC)
A critical aspect of these advancements is the National Fiberization Plan, which aims to expand Pakistan’s fiber footprint from 200,000 kilometers to 500,000 kilometers. This development will support the rapid deployment of 5G, bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas.
One of the standout proposals includes the deployment of 1 Gbps connectivity in Islamabad as a pilot project, with plans for nationwide expansion.
Progress and Challenges
The PTA’s annual report showcases remarkable progress:
- Cellular mobile services now cover 91% of the population.
- 3G/4G signals are accessible to over 81% of Pakistanis.
- The number of broadband subscribers has surged to 142.3 million, a 91% increase over five years.
- Broadband penetration has grown from 32.6% in 2019 to 58.4% by 2024.
Pakistan’s international connectivity is also robust, supported by seven submarine cables, the Pak-China Optical Fiber Cable, and 21 cross-border terrestrial links, providing a total capacity of 16.4 Tbps.
However, challenges such as limited FTTS coverage and low broadband speeds persist. The government’s comprehensive roadmap is determined to overcome these barriers, paving the way for digital inclusion.
Impact on Society
The transformative potential of these plans cannot be overstated:
- Students: Seamless access to online education for students in remote areas.
- Businesses: E-commerce and digital services will thrive with uninterrupted connectivity.
- Families: High-speed video calls will strengthen bonds across borders.
This vision isn’t just about speed; it’s about empowering every Pakistani with opportunities, equality, and access to a brighter digital future.
