PUBLISHED February 08, 2026
KARACHI:
Have you felt like your mobile internet speed has lost its sparkle? Over the past year, many across Pakistan have shared that familiar frustration. Videos that used to load in a heartbeat now buffer just long enough to test your patience. In bustling cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, peak hours have transformed into battles against lag. Whether you’re in the heart of Defence or stuck on Shahrah-e-Faisal, the slowdowns are hard to miss.
The pandemic didn’t just push our lives online; it reshaped the way we use the internet. Ride-hailing apps are now a staple, small businesses thrive on social media, and streaming videos are part of daily life. As more people hop online for work or class, the increased demand has put pressure on our networks. It’s a bit like trying to fit too many cars on a narrow road—it doesn’t end well.
As many users voice their concerns, a common question arises: why does a once-reliable network now feel strained? On the horizon, the buzz around 5G promises faster speeds, but the reality is more complicated. Technology doesn’t magically create more space; it just shifts how efficiently we use what’s available. While the rollout of 5G is on the table, the real fix might lie in expanding the existing network capacity first.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority is gearing up for a major auction aimed at addressing these very issues. The idea is not just to push for 5G, but to ensure that current services become more reliable, especially in crowded areas. Once this new spectrum is utilized, users can expect improvements to their 4G connections first, laying the groundwork for a gradual transition to 5G.
So, as the internet continues to be an essential part of our daily lives—whether for work, education, or connecting with loved ones—it’s reassuring to know that steps are being taken to enhance the experience. For anyone curious about how these changes might affect them, staying connected with news from platforms like Pro21st can be invaluable.
