Pakistan continues to grapple with connectivity challenges, particularly with its 4G infrastructure, even as the global landscape begins to embrace 5G technology
News Desk
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced the full restoration of internet services across the nation, as reported by Express News on Thursday. A spokesperson for the PTA confirmed that the issues affecting the SMW4 submarine cable have been resolved, allowing services to return to normal. The complications with the SMW4 cable emerged in June, compounded by faults in the AAE-1 submarine cable that were identified in August. With both cables now operational, the previous shortfall of 1,750 Gbps has been addressed, effectively restoring internet speeds to their full capacity.
The spokesperson indicated that internet connectivity is now functioning seamlessly across the country, a relief to users who have faced significant disruptions. This restoration follows the integration of the PEACE cable into Pakistan’s communication infrastructure earlier this year, with plans for further enhancements on the horizon. In the next two years, three additional submarine cables are set to be introduced, two from Transworld International and one from Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), aimed at bolstering connectivity and meeting the demands of an increasingly digital society.
Despite these advancements, Pakistan continues to grapple with connectivity challenges, particularly with its 4G infrastructure, even as the global landscape begins to embrace 5G technology. The restrictions on major social media platforms have compounded frustrations, particularly since X (formerly Twitter) has been blocked since February 17. In recent weeks, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Snapchat have only been accessible via virtual private networks (VPNs), further complicating users’ ability to connect.
The disruptions have significantly impacted essential services, such as sending and receiving voice notes, illustrating the ongoing challenges in digital access for many Pakistanis. As the nation moves forward, the PTA’s efforts to restore and enhance internet connectivity will be closely watched, especially in a world where digital communication plays a pivotal role in daily life.
