The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has announced a major initiative to ensure that all internet users in Pakistan have access to a minimum fixed broadband speed of 100mbps as part of a nationwide digital infrastructure upgrade. The project will be carried out under the World Bank-supported Digital Economy Enhancement Project, aimed at expanding fiber networks, enhancing high-speed connectivity, and advancing the government’s broader digital transformation agenda.
To implement this plan, MoITT will hire a consulting firm to develop Pakistan’s first National Fiberization Policy and Operational Plan. The new policy aims to deploy 8 to 10 million optical fiber-based house passes nationwide, expanding fixed broadband coverage and improving service quality. Additionally, the initiative will strengthen mobile network reliability by connecting 80 percent of telecom towers to fiber, a critical step for enhancing 4G performance and preparing the country for the future rollout of 5G networks. The government expects these measures to help Pakistan enter the top 50 countries in global internet speed rankings, as measured by Ookla.
The consulting firm will begin with a national gap assessment, mapping the current fiber network, analysing service availability, and identifying shortcomings in coverage, latency, penetration, quality of service, and operator incentives. The fiber development framework will be benchmarked against the Fiber Development Index and other international indicators to align with global best practices.
Following this assessment, the consultancy will prepare a comprehensive National Fiberization Strategy and Operational Plan. This plan will outline investment options, financing models, and governance structures to encourage participation from both public and private sectors. Bankable feasibility studies will be prepared to attract local and international investors through public-private partnership models. The strategy will also identify priority areas for new fiber deployment and recommend measures to enhance network resilience against natural disasters, cyber threats, and other operational risks.
This initiative represents a significant step toward improving Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, expanding high-speed internet access, and supporting economic growth, innovation, and digital inclusion across the country.
