 "Starlink in Pakistan soon says Elon Musk, awaiting green light from government")
Elon Musk has confirmed that Starlink, his satellite internet venture, is set to launch in Pakistan, pending government approval. The tech billionaire responded to a post on his platform, X, from a Pakistani user urging him to bring Starlink to the nation.
Musk’s announcement has sparked excitement among Pakistanis eager to bridge the digital divide and improve internet connectivity in a country grappling with infrastructure challenges.
This development follows Pakistan’s recent struggles with prolonged internet outages, making it the most affected nation in 2024, according to an independent report. With growing demand for reliable internet access, Starlink’s entry could mark a transformative leap for the country.
Government negotiations and challenges
Discussions between Pakistan and Starlink are already underway, with Minister of State for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirming active negotiations during a parliamentary session. She highlighted the government’s commitment to improving internet services despite ongoing challenges, including recent disruptions and security-related surveillance measures.
One of the primary hurdles delaying Starlink’s entry has been regulatory concerns, particularly regarding potential interference with Pakistan’s geostationary satellite, PakSAT-MM1. While these issues have previously stalled progress, the renewed push for Starlink reflects the government’s focus on addressing the nation’s connectivity crisis.
Internet disruptions take a toll
Pakistan’s need for improved internet infrastructure has never been more urgent. A report by Top10VPN.com revealed that the country suffered the most from global internet outages in 2024, with 16,540 hours of disruption resulting in an estimated $1.62 billion in financial losses. This placed Pakistan ahead of Myanmar and Sudan in terms of economic impact from internet disruptions.
The outages, combined with inconsistent internet access in rural and underserved areas, have stymied opportunities for education, business, and communication, making satellite internet an attractive solution for bridging the gap.
Starlink’s potential impact in Pakistan
If approved, Starlink could revolutionise internet access in Pakistan by delivering reliable, high-speed satellite connectivity across urban and remote regions alike. With its network of over 7,000 satellites, Starlink has already made significant strides in bringing broadband to underserved communities globally.
Musk’s confirmation of interest has sparked hope among millions of Pakistanis, particularly as Starlink’s technology promises to address the challenges of traditional internet infrastructure. As the nation waits for the government’s decision, the prospect of Starlink’s launch signals a potential turning point for Pakistan’s digital future.
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