Preparations for the launch of satellite internet services in Pakistan are in full swing, with several leading global companies expressing interest in the market. Among them, Elon Musk’s company, “Starlink,” is seen as a frontrunner in this race.
This development is set to pave the way for a digital revolution in Pakistan, helping modernize various sectors such as IT, education, industry, and commerce. Experts believe that the introduction of satellite internet will not only enhance connectivity in major cities but also provide high-speed internet access to rural and underdeveloped areas.
According to industry insiders, the availability of satellite internet will foster IT hubs, software houses, freelancing centers, and online businesses in smaller cities, stimulating local economies and the digital sector.
Mohammad Umair Nizam, Senior Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), stated that this new technology will make the country’s IT industry globally competitive and boost exports. Additionally, Mahwash Salman, a member of P@SHA’s Artificial Intelligence Committee, noted that satellite internet could help achieve national goals related to financial inclusion, digitization, and data security, provided that the government formulates a clear and transparent policy.
Reports indicate that the initial cost of satellite internet services will be higher than standard broadband, with a monthly package priced at approximately 35,000 PKR and installation costs starting at 110,000 PKR. While this may be expensive for individual users, it is considered a viable investment for businesses.
Ibrahim Amin, Chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), emphasized that the combination of satellite internet and solar-powered systems would usher in a new era of freelancing, e-employment, and co-working spaces in rural areas. This will provide local youth with job opportunities in their own regions, open new avenues for digital growth in the country, and contribute to the acquisition of valuable foreign exchange.
