Experts and business leaders have expressed strong support for the Pakistani government’s efforts to introduce satellite internet services, particularly through SpaceX’s Starlink, as a solution to improve internet connectivity across the country. Satellite internet services are expected to have a transformative impact, especially in rural and underserved regions, and could significantly boost Pakistan’s economy by facilitating industries such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and more.
The government has been in discussions with Starlink, the satellite internet service provider founded by Elon Musk, to bring its high-speed internet to Pakistan. This service is particularly valuable in remote areas, including rural regions, deserts, and mountain ranges, where traditional internet infrastructure like fiber optics or cell towers is not feasible. Experts have highlighted the importance of building a regulatory framework to support satellite internet, ensuring a competitive market and enabling all sectors to benefit from improved connectivity.
Pakistani-American entrepreneur Anosh Ahmed emphasized the potential of satellite internet to bring high-speed connectivity to small cities and rural areas, where broadband access is limited or non-existent. He noted that in countries like the US, satellite internet has enabled users in remote locations to access reliable internet speeds comparable to urban areas. This has led to improvements in remote work, online education, and telemedicine, bridging the digital divide.
In Pakistan, where over 63% of the population lives in rural areas, satellite internet could stimulate the rural economy by improving access to markets, education, and digital services. This increased connectivity would help rural communities participate in the global economy, Ahmed added. By enhancing connectivity in resource-rich regions like Balochistan and the northern areas, satellite internet services such as Starlink could also attract foreign and local investments in industries like mining, energy, and tourism.
Experts also pointed out the significant benefits of satellite internet for sectors such as healthcare and banking. Dr. Noman Said of SI Global, emphasized that satellite internet could support the development of sustainable healthcare systems in underserved areas by enabling telemedicine and virtual hospitals. This could allow patients in rural regions to receive medical consultations and treatment without the need to travel long distances to larger cities.
In addition, satellite internet could help expand financial inclusion in Pakistan by improving banking services, especially in rural areas. As internet connectivity improves, more people in remote areas could access digital financial services, contributing to the country’s ongoing efforts to digitize the economy.
While Pakistan has made significant progress in expanding cellular mobile services, with 91% of the population now covered by mobile networks and over 80% of the population having access to 3G/4G services, there are still significant challenges. Disruptions to internet connectivity, particularly during issues with undersea cables and fiber optic networks, often affect internet speed and reliability. Furthermore, rural areas face frequent power outages, making it difficult for cellular sites to operate effectively.
Satellite internet provides a reliable alternative to these challenges, especially for businesses that rely on uninterrupted connectivity. Dr. Said noted that satellite internet could help IT companies deliver services without delay, ensuring that exporters can fulfill orders on time and attract more international clients.
As satellite internet services like Starlink prepare to launch in Pakistan, experts are urging the government to develop supportive policies and regulations. This would help attract satellite internet providers and foster healthy competition in the market. Additionally, stakeholders are advised to prepare for the widespread use of satellite internet across various sectors, enabling Pakistan to fully capitalize on its economic potential. By creating clear regulatory frameworks, Pakistan can harness the benefits of satellite internet and address the digital divide, enabling growth across multiple industries and improving the quality of life for millions of Pakistanis.
