Urooj Niazi 
pta announces major upgrade to internet connectivity in pakistan
Pakistan to Expand Fibre Network for Faster Internet Nationwide
Pakistan is days away from improving internet speeds and connectivity across the country. The chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) recently briefed the National Assembly’s IT committee on the wonderful opportunities presenting themselves in Pakistan’s digital expansion.
Pakistan currently has around 160,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable installed, but that is not enough to meet the demand of today. There is a full-fledged effort in place to take this digital infrastructure to the next level.
New Submarine Cables Expected Soon
The PTA chairman announced that in the next few days, three new submarine cables will be made active. The submarine cables will further enhance internet capacity and reduce issues that commonly resonate including slow speed and poor connectivity. This upgrade is all part of a new National Fiberization Plan which is being worked on by the government under the Prime Minister’s instructions. The goal is to expand and upgrade to meet international demands.
No Fibre, Poor 4G Performance
According to the PTA Chair, “Without fibre, you really can’t efficiently run 4G,” which is a key reason why the Authority has decided to establish a dedicated Fibreization Policy for Pakistan, to enable people, both city and rural dwellers, to connect with the region even more seamlessly.
5G and Smart Cities
Better internet is not just about streaming movies quicker, since this fibre upgrade will help Pakistan begin to prepare for future technologies including 5G, smart cities and digital governance, which would put Pakistan much closer toward being a more integrated and technology facilitating region.
