Starlink’s Pakistan Launch: Internet Speeds, Pricing, and Approval Updates
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- February 6, 2025
- 2:46 pm
- 61
- Trending
Starlink’s Pakistan Launch is getting closer as the government speeds up approvals. The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on IT and Telecom has directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to fast-track Starlink’s licensing. This decision aims to improve internet access, especially in rural areas.
PTA Speeds Up Starlink Approval
PTA Chairman Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman confirmed that Starlink first contacted Pakistan in 2022. However, approval is still pending due to regulatory processes. The Pakistan Space Regulatory Authority is reviewing the case.
Last month, Elon Musk posted on X that Starlink had applied for approval and was waiting for a response. The PTA chairman later informed the Senate’s IT committee that 90% of negotiations were complete. If all approvals go smoothly, Starlink Pakistan Launch could happen as early as June.
Pakistan’s Internet Issues & Starlink’s Role
Pakistan has faced major internet disruptions in 2024. A report by Top10VPN.com ranked the country as the most affected, with $1.62 billion in financial losses. Many users, especially in rural areas, struggle with slow speeds and frequent outages.
Committee members expressed frustration over poor internet services. One member pointed out that even 40 km from Lahore, internet access is unreliable. Others criticized telecom companies for avoiding investment in low-profit areas. The committee urged PTA to regulate providers and ensure better nationwide connectivity.
IT Ministry’s Budget & Fiberisation Plans
The government is working on the National Fiberisation Policy to improve internet access. The Universal Service Fund (USF) reported that Pakistan uses only 274 MHz of spectrum, far below the required 860 MHz for smooth connectivity.
The IT ministry has proposed a Rs43.65 billion budget for the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) 2025-26. The committee recommended allocating at least 10% of USF funds for fiberisation. They urged the ministry to complete the process quickly.
Personal Data Protection Bill & AI Policy Updates
The Personal Data Protection Bill was a key discussion point. Committee chairman Aminul Haq emphasized its urgency. The IT secretary assured that stakeholder consultations were ongoing, and the bill would be submitted for approval soon.
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy draft is also ready. It will be presented to the Cabinet by the end of February. This policy will regulate AI development and its applications in Pakistan.
LDI Telecom Companies’ Unpaid Dues
The committee reviewed Long Distance and International (LDI) telecom companies’ outstanding dues. The PTA chairman revealed that companies owe Rs24 billion in principal payments and over Rs50 billion in late fees.
To recover these amounts, the government is considering three options:
- Full payment by telecom companies.
- Installment-based recovery.
- License suspension (which could disrupt 50% of ATM services and banking).
The committee requested a detailed report on the Telecom Tribunal in the next meeting.
Starlink’s Expected Packages & Pricing in Pakistan
Although the Starlink Pakistan Launch is not official yet, estimated pricing based on global rates suggests:
- Residential Package: 50-250 Mbps – PKR 35,000/month, hardware cost PKR 110,000.
- Business Package: 100-500 Mbps – PKR 95,000/month, hardware cost PKR 220,000.
- Mobility Package: 50-250 Mbps – PKR 50,000/month, hardware cost PKR 120,000.
For comparison, Starlink pricing in other countries is:
- United States: $110/month, hardware cost $599.
- United Kingdom: £89/month, hardware cost £499.
- Australia: AUD 139/month, hardware cost AUD 709.
How to Subscribe to Starlink in Pakistan
Once Starlink Pakistan Launch is approved, users can subscribe by:
- Visiting the Starlink website and checking availability.
- Paying a refundable deposit (around $99) to reserve a spot.
- Receiving the Starlink Kit, which includes:
- Dish
- Router
- Power supply
- Cables & tripod
- Installing the dish in an open area for the best satellite signal.
- Connecting to the Starlink app to complete the setup.
Once installed, the system will automatically connect to satellites and provide high-speed internet.
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