PTCL Completes Cable Repair, Internet Speeds Recover

KARACHI — Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has confirmed the completion of repair work on the repeater of the country’s submarine cable, which had caused temporary internet slowdowns.

PTCL had earlier warned users about possible internet disruptions lasting up to 18 hours during maintenance on the undersea communication network. Following the successful repair, operations on the affected cable segment have been fully restored, and internet connectivity is gradually returning to normal nationwide.

However, despite the repairs, users in Karachi continue to experience slower upload and download speeds, particularly on social media platforms, according to reports from both officials and users.

Read More: Internet Slowdowns Expected Across Pakistan During Cable Repairs

PTA to Launch Satellite Internet Licenses

In a related development, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced plans to issue licenses for Fixed Satellite Services (FSS). This move aims to improve internet access across Pakistan, especially in remote and underserved areas.

The initiative is expected to attract global satellite internet providers such as Starlink and Shanghai SpaceCom. Licensed operators will be permitted to set up ground gateway stations and Very Small Aperture Terminals (VSATs).

Each license will have a validity of 15 years with a licensing fee of USD 500,000. Service providers are required to launch operations within 18 months of receiving approval.

Read More:PTCL Restores Internet Services Across Pakistan After Nationwide Outage

The PTCL spokesperson said the service disruption affected multiple cities, including Karachi, causing inconvenience to online users.

During the outage, internet speed slowed considerably, impacting people relying on online apps and digital businesses. Users reported delays and difficulties accessing services