Shaza Fatima, the State Minister for Information Technology, has acknowledged Pakistan’s slow internet speeds and addressed the ongoing connectivity issues. Speaking at the National Broadband Network Forum in Islamabad, she confirmed that efforts would be made to improve internet services with the implementation of the Fiberisation Policy and the introduction of 5G technology.
Fatima announced that the 5G spectrum auction will take place in April, while also focusing on enhancing the existing 4G infrastructure. She recognized the cybersecurity challenges the country faces, with daily cyberattacks, and assured that the government is committed to strengthening data protection and cybersecurity efforts.
Also Read: IT Minister Says Internet Slowdown is Due to Spectrum Problems and Bad Infrastructure
The Minister also revealed that the Prime Minister has formed a National Digital Commission, which will present a five-year roadmap for Pakistan’s digital development. The Digital Pakistan Bill is set to be introduced in the National Assembly, and once passed, it will facilitate the establishment of the National Digital Commission, aimed at improving internet speeds and addressing Pakistan’s digital challenges.
Currently, Pakistan ranks poorly for internet speed globally, being in the bottom 12% for both mobile and broadband speeds, according to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index. As of October, Pakistan ranked 100th out of 111 countries for mobile internet speeds and 141st out of 158 for broadband speeds.
Despite government promises to upgrade infrastructure, Pakistanis continue to face slow connections and difficulties with VPN access, raising concerns over restricted digital freedoms.
