ISLAMABAD

Pakistan’s push toward next-generation 5G connectivity is facing a critical obstacle as a widening fibre-optic infrastructure deficit slows down rollout plans, industry stakeholders warn.

According to reports, the country’s limited fibre backbone is emerging as a key bottleneck for telecom operators preparing for 5G deployment in 2026, raising concerns over readiness for high-speed networks.

Experts say that without rapid expansion of fibre infrastructure, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas, the performance and reliability of 5G services could remain constrained despite spectrum availability and policy support.

Telecom operators argue that fibre connectivity is essential to support the dense network of small cells required for 5G, but current infrastructure remains insufficient to meet projected demand.

Industry observers caution that the gap could delay Pakistan’s digital transformation goals, especially in sectors such as smart cities, cloud computing, and industrial automation.

They add that bridging the fibre deficit will require coordinated investment between the government and private sector, along with streamlined regulatory approvals to accelerate network expansion.

Officials acknowledge the challenge, saying efforts are underway to improve backbone connectivity as part of broader digital infrastructure reforms.

Without urgent upgrades, analysts warn, Pakistan risks falling behind regional peers in the global race toward high-speed, low-latency connectivity.