Even after the launch of 5G services in Pakistan, internet speed is still not good in many areas. People in big cities like Karachi and Lahore are still facing slow browsing, weak video streaming, and unstable connections. Even in the capital city, Islamabad, users are reporting slow internet speeds, which is causing problems in daily online work, study, and communication.
Pakistan’s 5G Network May Face Major Setbacks Without Key Reforms in Coming Years
The situation is even more difficult in remote regions such as Azad Kashmir and Balochistan. In these areas, fast and stable internet is still not widely available. Many people depend on basic connections, and sometimes they face frequent network drops and very low speed, making it hard to use modern online services. This issue is also being discussed in industry events like the Ericsson 5G AI growth Pakistan forum, where experts highlight the need for better network expansion and digital connectivity.
At present, the average internet speed in Pakistan is around 25 Mbps. This is quite low when compared to global standards. Because of this, the country is ranked 198th in the world for internet speed. This clearly shows that Pakistan is still far behind many other countries in terms of digital connectivity and internet quality, and there is a strong need for major improvements in the network system.
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Why Internet Speed Is Still Slow
Experts say one big reason for slow internet is the lack of strong fiber networks. Fiber cables carry data very fast, but only about 15% to 18% of mobile towers in Pakistan are connected to fiber. Most towers still use microwave links, which are slower and cannot support full 5G performance. Because of this, users cannot enjoy the real benefits of 5G, such as fast speed and low delay.
Problems in Fiber Network Expansion
Building fiber networks in Pakistan is not easy. Companies need permission from many authorities, such as city offices and development bodies. This process can take 12 to 18 months. It also increases the cost of building networks. Although the government has removed some charges in certain areas, many costs are still high. For example, Pakistan charges between PKR 35 and PKR 60 per meter every year for fiber. In comparison, India charges only a one-time small fee. This makes investment more difficult in Pakistan. This challenge also affects mobile upgrades and next-gen connectivity, including iPhone 5G support Pakistan limited network, where limited infrastructure slows down full 5G rollout.
Installing fiber is very expensive. It costs around $10,000 to $20,000 to upgrade just one site. Since thousands of sites need upgrades, the total cost becomes very high. Other problems also make things harder. These include inflation, taxes, low earnings for telecom companies, and lack of skilled workers. Natural issues like floods and difficult land areas also slow down the work. Because of these reasons, telecom companies are not able to expand networks quickly. This also impacts upcoming telecom developments such as Ufone Telenor 5G Pakistan launch, where infrastructure challenges can delay full-scale rollout.
The government is trying to improve the situation. It has set aside Rs. 35.7 billion from a total of Rs. 141 billion under the Universal Service Fund to expand fiber networks in different regions. Experts say both the government and telecom companies must work together. They need to invest more in fiber cables and modern systems. There is also a need to train skilled workers or bring experts from other countries if required.
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What Needs to Improve for 5G Success
Experts believe that at least 60% of mobile towers must be connected to fiber in the coming years. Without this, 5G services will continue to face problems like slow speed and weak performance. Better planning, faster approvals, and lower costs can help improve the system. Strong teamwork between the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, telecom companies, and the government is very important.
Pakistan’s 5G rollout is facing many challenges, especially slow internet speed and weak fiber networks. While efforts are being made, much more work is needed to improve the system. If the country can expand fiber networks and reduce costs, users may finally enjoy fast and reliable internet. This will also help Pakistan move forward in its digital growth. News source eTimes Pakistan.
