Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has announced scheduled maintenance work on the SMW4 submarine cable system. The maintenance may lead to temporary internet disruptions across the country.
According to PTCL, the work on the SMW4 (South East Asia–Middle East–Western Europe 4) cable will continue from April 14 to April 20. The system is managed by an international consortium responsible for global connectivity routes.
During this period, users may experience Slower Internet speeds, especially during peak evening hours. PTCL has advised that some regions may also face intermittent connectivity issues.
Officials said the maintenance is necessary to ensure long-term stability of the undersea communication network. However, temporary disruption is expected while the work is ongoing.
PTCL warned that users could face Slower Internet performance and short service interruptions during the maintenance window. The impact may vary depending on location and network load.
Earlier, PTCL had also confirmed the completion of repair work on a repeater installed in the submarine cable. That repair initially restored connectivity across multiple regions.
Despite the completion of earlier repairs, users in Karachi and other areas continued to report performance issues. Many customers complained about Slower Internet speeds during uploads and downloads on social media platforms.
Officials acknowledged that some areas are still experiencing reduced performance. They said the network is gradually stabilizing after repeated maintenance activities.
PTCL stated that full restoration efforts are ongoing to minimize disruption. However, users should remain prepared for occasional Slower Internet conditions until the maintenance period ends.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced a new plan to improve internet access in the country. The authority aims to issue licenses for Fixed Satellite Services (FSS).
This initiative is expected to bring international companies, including Starlink and Shanghai SpaceCom, into Pakistan’s telecom market. The goal is to improve connectivity in remote and underserved regions.
Under the plan, licensed operators will be allowed to set up ground gateway stations and VSAT terminals. Each license will remain valid for 15 years.
The licensing fee has been set at USD 500,000. Operators will also be required to begin services within 18 months of approval.
Officials believe these long-term measures will help reduce dependency on existing networks. They also aim to reduce issues like Slower Internet during maintenance or technical disruptions.
For now, PTCL has advised users to expect temporary fluctuations in service until the SMW4 maintenance work is fully completed.
In other news read more about: Internet Slows Down in Pakistan; PTCL Reveals Reason
