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Pakistan’s mobile networks are adopting new technologies to improve connectivity and user experience. Initiatives include the introduction of VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoWiFi to enhance voice quality indoors and in low-signal areas. Active infrastructure sharing has also been encouraged to reduce deployment costs and expand coverage in underserved regions.
The National Roaming facility has been launched along the Makran Coastal Highway (Karachi- Gwadar) and in rural districts such as Barkhan, Kohlu, and Killa Saifullah. In addition, Fiber to the Site (FTTS) targets are being set annually to strengthen backhaul capacity and overall network performance, laying the groundwork for next-generation services including 5G.
According to Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) data, mobile broadband penetration in the country exceeds 70% of the population, with over 210 million mobile subscribers nationwide. Despite this, remote and mountainous areas continue to experience limited connectivity, particularly in Balochistan and northern districts, where network deployment has historically lagged behind urban centers like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
Key Mobile Network Statistics- 2025
| Indicator | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Total mobile subscribers | 210 million | PTA, 2025 |
| Mobile broadband penetration | 70% of population | PTA, 2025 |
| VoLTE adoption | 45% of network coverage | Estimated by operators |
| FTTS (Fiber to the Site) deployment | 35% of cell sites | Operator reports / PTA targets |
| National roaming coverage | Makran Coastal Highway + Barkhan, Kohlu, Killa Saifullah | Government initiative |
| Rural coverage gaps | 20% of districts with limited connectivity | PTA survey, 2025 |
Technologies like VoLTE and VoWiFi have been globally recognized for improving call quality and reliability in congested networks. Experts say their introduction in Pakistan could enhance voice call clarity, reduce dropped calls, and improve indoor coverage, especially in rural and remote locations.
