Pakistan is set to install three new submarine internet cables this year as part of a major push to enhance digital infrastructure, increase bandwidth capacity, and support the nationwide rollout of 5G services, according to a report by state broadcaster Radio Pakistan.
Government officials say the new cables will improve internet reliability, reduce dependence on older and more failure-prone systems like AAE-1 and SMW-4, and better integrate Pakistan into global data networks. The initiative is also expected to attract investment in digital sectors such as e-commerce and fintech.
“This initiative will not only boost internet speed but also ensure reliability, reduce service outages, and unlock broader economic potential,” said Federal Minister for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, as quoted by Radio Pakistan.
With over 150 million internet users—most of them on mobile broadband—Pakistan is one of the largest digital markets in the world. However, connectivity challenges persist. The country frequently experiences cable faults that cause widespread internet slowdowns, while limited fiber-optic coverage continues to hamper the growth of digital services.
In addition, civil society groups have raised concerns about the government’s repeated shutdowns of internet access during protests and security operations. Critics argue these disruptions undermine public trust in the digital economy, cost billions in lost productivity, and restrict freedom of expression.
The government, however, denies using internet blackouts as a tool of censorship.
