A new undersea internet cable is being installed, which is set to drastically enhance internet speed and reliability in Pakistan. Spanning 45,000 kilometers, this cable will provide Pakistan with a substantial 24 terabytes of bandwidth, a significant increase from the current 8 terabytes provided by the seven existing cables.
A Major Boost to Connectivity
The new system will connect Pakistan to the African region, promising to improve connectivity and address long-standing complaints about slow internet speeds. This upgraded bandwidth will also enhance the performance of popular platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram.
Resolution of Temporary Internet Issues
P@SHA Chairman Sajjad Mustafa Syed confirmed that the temporary internet issues caused by the ongoing installation work in certain areas have mostly been resolved. While the cable is still under construction, it is expected to be fully operational by next year, bringing a much-needed boost to the country’s connectivity.
More Upgrades on the Horizon
Syed also revealed that four additional major internet lines, including those supporting 5G, are in development and will help permanently resolve connectivity challenges. “Infrastructure requires support in every area; we need 5G to tackle bandwidth congestion and fiber connectivity for mobile towers. Moreover, linkages with international cables and networks are crucial,” he said. With these advancements, including the new undersea cable, Pakistan’s internet capacity will nearly double, ensuring better infrastructure for the next two to five years.
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari Advocates for Digital Rights
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, speaking at a convocation in Jamshoro, called for robust legislation to ensure uninterrupted and equitable internet access. He emphasized that fiber-optic cables and a strong internet infrastructure are vital for both present and future generations. Bilawal stressed that affordable, reliable internet access should be considered a fundamental right.
Fighting Censorship and Securing Digital Rights
Bilawal also criticized the internet censorship decisions made by officials in Islamabad, stating they are often made without sufficient understanding and negatively impact the youth. He vowed to introduce a Digital Rights Bill in Parliament aimed at securing unrestricted and affordable access to the internet for all. “I will present a Digital Rights Bill, written by us, for us, in the National Assembly as your representative. Share your suggestions with me on Instagram, Facebook, and X,” he concluded.
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