As the global tech world races ahead with the deployment of 5G technology, Pakistan continues to lag behind, with mobile users across the country facing persistent issues even with existing 3G and 4G services. Widespread complaints of poor signal strength, slow mobile data, and disrupted connectivity have become the norm in both urban and rural areas. From major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to remote towns and highways, users are voicing increasing frustration over the deteriorating quality of mobile services.
Despite the growing discontent, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has admitted it has not taken any meaningful action in 2025 to hold telecom providers accountable for substandard service. Instead, the regulatory body has leaned on routine statements, claiming that improving service quality is an ongoing process. In a recent interaction with Samaa TV, PTA officials acknowledged the nationwide decline in mobile and internet services but provided little assurance of tangible improvement.
Also Read: The Impact of Sports Facilities on Community Health and Engagement
Users across the country report frequent call drops, painfully slow mobile internet, and unreliable coverage, especially in areas where consistent connectivity is critical, such as on Pakistan’s extensive motorway network. These issues have not only disrupted daily communication but also hampered productivity and access to essential digital services.
PTA has cited regular monitoring and surveys as part of its oversight responsibilities, noting that it has imposed fines amounting to Rs 68.9 million on mobile network operators in recent years. However, only Rs13.6 million of this amount has been recovered, raising questions about the enforcement and deterrence capabilities of the authority.
The continued lack of enforcement and absence of effective penalties have left consumers disillusioned. Many argue that without real consequences for poor service delivery, telecom companies have little incentive to improve infrastructure or invest in better coverage. As the dream of 5G remains far from reality, millions of Pakistanis are left struggling with unreliable 4G and even 3G services in 2025, making digital inclusion and economic growth harder to achieve.
