National Connectivity Plan targets wider broadband coverage, faster internet and digital inclusion across Pakistan
ISLAMABAD: The government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding high-speed internet for remote areas across Pakistan, particularly in villages, remote regions and small towns, under the proposed National Connectivity Plan aimed at accelerating digital inclusion and economic growth.
The commitment was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema, attended by Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja and senior government officials. The meeting focused on strengthening digital infrastructure to bridge the connectivity gap and unlock new opportunities for businesses, freelancers and communities in underserved regions.
Ahad Cheema said extending reliable and affordable internet services to remote parts of the country remains a top government priority. He noted that freelancers, e-commerce entrepreneurs and digital professionals living outside major cities continue to face significant challenges due to slow and unreliable internet connectivity.
He said the government would take all necessary steps to ensure affordable, high-speed internet for remote areas, enabling citizens across Pakistan to fully participate in the country’s growing digital economy.
The meeting highlighted the critical role of next-generation fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks and the future rollout of 5G infrastructure in supporting economic development, job creation and nationwide digital transformation.
Officials informed the meeting that Pakistan’s FTTH subscriber base has reached 2.8 million, supported by a fiber network spanning 234,000 kilometres, 5.1 million house passes and six operational submarine cables, reflecting continued progress in the country’s digital infrastructure.
To build on this momentum, the proposed National Connectivity Plan sets ambitious targets, including expanding fiber infrastructure to 10 million house passes, increasing average fixed broadband download speeds to 85 Mbps, securing a place among the world’s top 50 countries for broadband performance and raising telecom tower fiberization to 60%.
Participants also discussed measures to improve internet affordability and accessibility, particularly in underserved regions. Proposals included targeted tax relief for internet users in remote areas, abolition of right-of-way fees, introduction of a single-window approval system for telecom infrastructure projects, district-level licensing and mandatory fixed broadband connectivity for public institutions, schools and healthcare facilities.
Ahad Cheema said the National Connectivity Plan would be finalised after extensive consultations with all relevant stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and long-term success.
He added that the plan would adopt a structured approach by prioritising regulatory reforms, enforcing clear obligations for telecom operators and linking financial incentives to verified performance milestones. According to the minister, this strategy will accelerate nationwide fiber deployment, improve digital connectivity, safeguard public resources and ensure the long-term sustainability of Pakistan’s broadband sector.
The government believes improved digital connectivity will help reduce the urban-rural digital divide, create new employment opportunities, expand access to online education and healthcare services, and strengthen Pakistan’s transition towards a knowledge-based and digitally connected economy.