ISLAMABAD: The government plans to launch 5G internet services in Pakistan by mid-year, Parliamentary Secretary for IT Sabreen Ghori said.
As per report, Speaking in the National Assembly today, Ghori assured lawmakers that internet speed in the country will improve further by mid-year. She also said that internet slowdowns happen due to several reasons, affecting connectivity and speed for users.
Lawmakers raised concerns about slow internet. PPP’s Agha Rafiullah said, “At times, no videos can be downloaded, and the internet stops working completely.”
MPA Shagufta Jumani supported PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto’s past statement, questioning, “Which fish are eating Pakistan’s internet cables?”
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However, this promise of 5G comes as a challenge. According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s (PTA) 2024 report, despite growing broadband use, Pakistan will face difficulties in shifting to 5G.
There are financial concerns linked to this transition. While broadband and mobile services continue to grow, investment in Pakistan’s telecom sector has dropped from $1.6 billion in 2021-22 to $765 million in 2023-24.
The PTA report also highlighted that telecom operators will face heavy costs for the 5G shift. The return on these large investments may take time, making telecom companies cautious.
