Minister of State for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima has blamed the slow internet speeds across Pakistan on the telecom operators, citing the non-availability of sufficient spectrum and their load management practices as the main reasons.

In an informal conversation with reporters, the minister revealed that the current 274 MHz spectrum is at full capacity, leading to reduced internet speeds.

The minister also pointed out that faults in two submarine cables have exacerbated the issue. Pakistan’s internet is linked to eight submarine cables, but the malfunctioning of two of these cables has put additional pressure on the remaining infrastructure.

IT Minister assured that internet speeds will improve once the next spectrum auction is held, which would increase the available spectrum and reduce the load on the current infrastructure. However, she noted that restrictions on opening Letters of Credit (LCs) had delayed the import of necessary telecom equipment, further complicating the issue.

The minister also highlighted the lack of investment in the telecom sector, stating that no new telecom infrastructure has been established in the past two years. The rising dollar rates and low average revenue per user (ARPU) in Pakistan have also burdened the sector, making it challenging for telecom operators to maintain optimal services.

Fatima criticized telecom operators for managing their load by reducing or restricting services during power outages rather than using fuel generators to maintain services. She expressed hope that spectrum auctions and investments in the telecom sector would resolve many of the current issues and improve internet speeds across the country.